Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Eastern Sanity have destroyed a major camp belonging to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during ongoing clearance operations in Anambra State.
According to the military, the operation is part of intensified efforts to dismantle insurgent camps and restore peace across the South-East.
In a statement issued on Thursday and shared via its official X handle, the army detailed the operation, noting that troops, working alongside other security agencies and supported by close air cover from the Nigerian Air Force, launched an offensive on March 3, 2026, targeting Camp Gbadoanya in Orsumoghu, within Ihiala Local Government Area.
“Troops of Operation EASTERN SANITY are sustaining aggressive clearance operations against the proscribed IPOB and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network, within the Area of Operations,” the military said.
“The coordinated operation is aimed at restoring lasting peace and security in the region.”
According to the statement, troops advanced into the camp to clear remnants of suspected IPOB/ESN fighters and dismantle their operational base.
“During the operation, several insurgent camps were identified, thoroughly exploited and destroyed,” the statement said.
According to the army, weapons and other items recovered from the camp included pump-action guns, locally made Dane guns, assorted rifle magazines, rifle components, belts of ammunition and cutting machines.
The statement noted that the troops also recovered items linked to the separatist group, including Biafran currency notes, a Biafran flag and a Biafran Army Headquarters flag, as well as musical instruments believed to belong to a Biafran Army band.
“A Biafran flag and a Biafran Army Headquarters flag were also recovered. Troops destroyed the flags and hoisted the Nigerian flag in the camps,” the statement added.
The military said the offensive continued the following day, with troops expanding the operation to other sections of the camp.
Troops also uncovered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) fabrication site believed to have been used for producing bombs.
“Troops discovered and dismantled an Improvised Explosive Device fabrication site, which was carefully exploited and destroyed,” the statement said.
“Several IED-making items were recovered from the sites including welding machines, drilling machines and filling machines, as well as other equipment used in the production of improvised explosive devices,” the military added.
The army said the operation is part of a broader campaign to dismantle remaining IPOB/ESN camps and neutralise armed elements threatening security in Imo State and other parts of the South-East.
“Troops will continue aggressive clearance operations within the theatre until all criminal elements are neutralised and lasting peace is restored in the region,” the military said.
