On May 6, 2026, troops from Sector 1 of Operation UDO KA, working alongside sister security agencies, successfully disrupted a planned assault by suspected IPOB and ESN militants in Imezi Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area, Enugu State. The operation was part of an intelligence-led patrol aimed at tracking terrorist collaborators in the region.
According to Lt. Col. Olabisi Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, the soldiers were advancing on foot when they came under fire from a concealed position within a building. The attack left three soldiers wounded, but the troops maintained control, repelled the attackers, and secured the vicinity. The injured personnel have been evacuated to a military hospital and are receiving care.
The statement further revealed that during the firefight, improvised explosive devices stored by the militants inside the building detonated, causing a blaze that destroyed the hideout. Subsequent searches led to the recovery of additional IEDs, homemade grenades, and a shrine used for ritual purposes. The shrine was dismantled and destroyed to prevent further criminal use.
One suspected accomplice was arrested at the scene and has been handed over to the Nigerian Police in Ezeagu Division for interrogation. The army has called on law-abiding residents to remain calm, avoid harboring criminals, and cooperate with security forces.
The Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, reiterated its warning to members of the proscribed IPOB and ESN to abandon illegal activities or face severe consequences. Security agencies remain committed to restoring peace and dismantling terrorist networks in the region.