By Peter Omopo
Troops of Operation EASTERN SANITY have dismantled multiple camps of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Anambra State.
The operations, carried out on March 3 and 4 at Camp Gbadoanya in Orsumoghu, Ihiala Local Government Area, involved the joint effort of the Nigerian Army, other security agencies, and close air support from the Nigerian Air Force.
According to a statement by the Army, soldiers advanced through the camps and surrounding areas, destroying insurgent hideouts and recovering weapons, explosive components, and secessionist paraphernalia. Items seized included pump-action guns, locally made dane guns, rifle magazines, rifle parts, ammunition belts, cutting machines, IED-making materials, Biafran currencies, and musical equipment from a Biafran Army Band.
A Biafran flag and a Biafran Army Headquarters flag were recovered and replaced with the Nigerian flag in the camps. On the second day, troops discovered and dismantled a fully operational IED fabrication facility, recovering welding machines, drilling machines, car batteries, twelve locally fabricated guns, rifle components, and other explosive materials.
The Nigerian Army said the operations aim to restore lasting peace and security in the region. The offensive against IPOB and ESN in Anambra has intensified in recent months, following previous raids in Lilu Forest and Nkwere, and arrests of suspected logistics suppliers.
IPOB and its armed wing, ESN, were proscribed by the Federal Government in 2017.
