The Nigerian Army has achieved a major victory in its fight against terrorism, successfully neutralizing four suspected terrorists and destroying multiple camps linked to the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Abia State. This operation, carried out by the South-East Joint Task Force, codenamed Operation Udoka, is part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to enhance security in the South-East region and eliminate the threat of terrorism and violent groups.
On Sunday, the Nigerian Army launched a clearance operation in a forested area near Umuaku Isuochi, located in the Umunneochi Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State. According to Lt. Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, the operation followed credible intelligence, which had indicated that a group of terrorists was operating in the area. During the operation, four suspected terrorists were neutralized, marking a significant success for the security forces. The army has not released specific details about the identities of those neutralized, but it is clear that the operation was crucial in reducing the threat posed by these individuals.
Following the success in Abia State, the army continued its operations in neighboring Isiala Ngwa North LGA, also in Abia. In the early hours of Monday, troops raided a camp believed to be linked to the ESN, a militia group associated with separatist activities in the region. The camp, located near the Imo River axis, was completely destroyed, with a variety of military equipment and vehicles seized.
The operation also led to the recovery of arms, ammunition, and other supplies that were reportedly stored by the terrorists in the camp. This is a significant blow to the ESN, which has been accused of carrying out violent acts and attacking security forces in the South-East.
The successful clearance operation did not stop at Abia State. Similar raids were carried out in parts of Imo State, where additional camps were found and destroyed. These operations were part of a coordinated effort to dismantle terrorist strongholds and disrupt the supply chains that sustain violent groups like the ESN.
During these raids, the army was able to recover more weapons, vehicles, and other essential materials that were being used by the terrorists. The army’s actions have significantly weakened the operational capacity of the ESN, sending a strong message about the Nigerian military’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region.
The Nigerian Army’s actions in Abia and Imo States are a testament to the army’s determination to protect the lives and properties of citizens in the South-East. In his statement, Lt. Col. Unuakhalu emphasized that the army would continue its operations in the region, working alongside other security agencies to ensure the safety of residents and bring an end to the threat posed by terrorist groups.
As these operations continue, the Nigerian Army is also calling on the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with the authorities by providing timely and credible information about terrorist activities. The military’s successes are attributed to the collaboration between security forces and the local population, who have played an essential role in identifying terrorist hideouts.
