Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Eastern Sanity have intensified operations in the South-East, dismantling strongholds linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

In a major offensive on April 14, 2026, joint forces supported by the Air Component of Operation UDO KA carried out a clearance operation in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State. The operation forced suspected militants to flee, abandoning key assets, including an anti-tank improvised explosive device (IED), which was later secured by explosive ordnance experts.

Military authorities said troops have since taken control of the area, destroying hideouts and dismantling infrastructure used by the group, in a move aimed at preventing regrouping and further attacks.

In a related operation, troops of the 82 Division Garrison in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, acting on intelligence from the Department of State Services, arrested a suspected kidnapper linked to a ransom network.

Security forces recovered a pump-action rifle and ₦2 million believed to be ransom proceeds from the suspect’s residence. The suspect has been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.

The Nigerian Army said the operations have significantly weakened the operational and financial capacity of IPOB/ESN, reaffirming its commitment to eliminating criminal elements and restoring peace in the region.