Awka, Anambra State — March 5, 2026
Troops of Operation EASTERN SANITY have intensified aggressive clearance operations against the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), as part of ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability across the South-East.
The sustained operation is targeted at dismantling terrorist enclaves, neutralizing armed elements, and eliminating operational bases used by the groups within the theatre of operations.
On March 3, 2026, troops in conjunction with other security agencies, supported by close air support from the Nigerian Air Force, continued ongoing clearance operations at Camp Gbadoanya in Orsumoghu, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
During the coordinated assault, the joint force advanced into the camp to flush out remnants of IPOB/ESN fighters operating within the area and its surrounding forests.
Several insurgent camps were identified during the operation, thoroughly searched, and subsequently destroyed. Troops recovered a cache of weapons and equipment including pump-action guns, locally fabricated dane guns, assorted rifle magazines, and various rifle components. Also recovered were belts of ammunition and cutting machines.
Other items discovered at the site included Biafran currencies, several materials used for the fabrication of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), as well as a Biafran Army band set and musical equipment.
Troops also recovered a Biafran flag and a Biafran Army Headquarters flag at the camp. The flags were destroyed, after which troops hoisted the Nigerian national flag within the cleared camp.
In continuation of the offensive, troops on March 4, 2026, destroyed several additional insurgent camps within the Camp Gbadoanya axis. During the follow-up operations, troops discovered and dismantled an Improvised Explosive Device fabrication site used by the terrorists.
The facility was carefully exploited before being destroyed.
Items recovered from the IED fabrication site include welding machines, drilling machines, and filling machines, alongside several car batteries and an electrode welding handle. Troops also recovered twelve locally fabricated guns, rifle components, and other equipment used in the production of explosive devices.
Military authorities say the sustained operations form part of a broader strategy to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, disrupt logistics networks, and restore lasting security across the region.