Troops of the Nigerian Army have intensified offensive operations in the South-East, overrunning IPOB/ESN strongholds and recovering explosives and ransom money in coordinated ground and intelligence-led operations.
The operations, conducted under Operation EASTERN SANITY with support from the Air Component of Operation UDO KA, targeted insurgent enclaves in Ajali Forest, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, where troops executed a precision strike that forced fighters into retreat.
Military sources confirmed that fleeing elements abandoned an anti-tank improvised explosive device (IED), which was subsequently secured by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, preventing potential casualties.
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Troops have since consolidated control of the area, destroyed identified hideouts, and continued clearance operations aimed at dismantling remaining infrastructure used by the group.
In a related operation, troops of 82 Division Garrison at Adani in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, acting on intelligence provided by the Department of State Services, intercepted ransom proceeds linked to a kidnapping network.
The raid led to the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the recovery of a pump-action rifle alongside ₦2 million, believed to be ransom payments. The suspect and exhibits have been handed over for further investigation.
The combination of precision strikes and intelligence-led financial interdictions is simultaneously targeting both the operational and funding structures of armed groups in the South-East.
The destruction of forest-based hideouts and the interception of ransom flows indicate a shift towards dismantling insurgent ecosystems, undermining their ability to regroup, finance operations, and sustain a long-term presence.