The Nigerian Army has announced the killing of 13 armed members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the arrest of three kidnappers in a series of recent clearance operations across the South-East region. The operations, conducted by troops of Operation UDO KA, were aimed at ensuring the safety and peace of the South-East during the festive season.
In a statement released by the task force’s spokesman, Lt. Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, it was revealed that the operations targeted criminal elements, including kidnappers and IPOB militants. On December 21, troops from Sector 1 carried out an ambush operation along Amouka Umouka Road in Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State. During the operation, the troops engaged suspected kidnappers, killing one and forcing others to flee with gunshot wounds. The items recovered from the scene included an AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 17 rounds of ammunition, along with personal belongings like cell phones, ATM cards, and cash.
Earlier, on December 16, troops from Sector 5 conducted a clearance operation in the Mbosi and Isseke areas of Ihiala Local Government Area in Anambra State. This operation led to the neutralization of three IPOB members. In addition to recovering firearms, including an AK-47 and Dane guns, troops destroyed a house and a shrine used by the IPOB militants for fortification. Additionally, during routine patrols in Ihiala Orlu and surrounding areas, the troops discovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and other materials associated with militant activities.
The Nigerian Army also reported a successful operation on December 14, when troops apprehended three suspected kidnappers in Obingwa Local Government Area, Abia State. Acting on credible intelligence, the troops intercepted the suspects in a stolen tricycle and seized weapons, including rifles and ammunition. The suspects were arrested and are currently in custody.
Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, the Force Commander of Operation UDO KA, urged South-East citizens to continue supporting the joint task force by providing timely and credible information. He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in ensuring the region’s security and encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities to the task force using the toll-free line.
The successful operations are part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to curb criminal activities and ensure the safety of citizens in the South-East, particularly during the busy holiday season.