Nigerian Army Recovers Remains Of Slain Soldier Couple In Imo Forest

The Nigerian Army has destroyed a camp belonging to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imo State.

During the operation, troops also recovered remains believed to belong to two soldiers who were kidnapped and killed by the group in 2022.

The operation took place on Thursday along the Ubaha Orsu axis in Orsu Local Government Area.

A statement released on Saturday said soldiers from the 82 Division moved into the area based on intelligence pointing to a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout.

“Acting on intelligence information, the operation, conducted on 24 April 2026 along the Ubaha Orsu axis of Orsu Local Government Area, was part of a deliberate clearance and search mission aimed at dismantling IPOB/ESN hideout within the region and locating the remains of two personnel of the Nigerian Army, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were brutally abducted and murdered by IPOB/ESN terrorists in May 2022 while en route for their traditional wedding.

“Acting on credible intelligence, troops advanced towards a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout when they came under heavy attack by armed criminals.

“Demonstrating resilience, the troops decisively engaged the terrorists, successfully repelling multiple ambushes and forcing the criminals to flee in disarray.

“The encounter further exposed the desperation and criminal nature of the group, which continues to target innocent citizens and security personnel alike,” the statement read.

The army said that after securing the camp, troops searched the area and found shallow graves which they excavated, recovering suspected human remains.

“Following the successful clearance of the camp, troops conducted a thorough search of the area and made a grim but important discovery shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of the slain personnel. The graves were carefully excavated and suspected remains were recovered.

“The recovered remains have since been secured for detailed forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to conclusively establish their identities.

“Efforts are also ongoing to liaise with the families of the fallen personnel to ensure proper identification and facilitate befitting burial arrangements in honour of their sacrifice,” the Army said.

It added that the operation “not only underscores the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to ensuring justice for fallen heroes but also highlights the continued degradation of IPOB/ESN criminal networks and infrastructure across the South East.”

“The discovery of shallow graves within their camp further exposes the group’s heinous atrocities and disregard for human life,” the statement added.

The army also reassured the public that similar operations will continue “until all criminal elements are neutralised and lasting peace is restored across the region.”

It also urged residents to remain alert and share useful information with security agencies.

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