The Nigerian Army says it has recovered the suspected remains of two of its personnel abducted and killed in 2022 in Imo State, Nigeria’s South-east.

It also said it has dismantled a notorious camp of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in the state.

The development is contained in an operational report made available to the News Agency of Nigeria on Saturday in Abuja.

The report disclosed that the operation, conducted by troops of 82 Division in collaboration with other security agencies, took place on Friday along the Ubaha-Orsu axis of Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State.

According to the report, the mission was part of ongoing clearance and search operations aimed at flushing out IPOB/ESN elements and locating the remains of Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew.

“The two personnel were abducted and killed in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding,” it said.

The report stated that troops advancing on the suspected hideout came under heavy attack from armed criminals but responded with superior firepower, repelling multiple ambushes and forcing the attackers to flee.

It noted that the encounter highlighted the desperation of the criminal group, which continues to target both security personnel and innocent civilians.

“Following the clearance of the camp, troops conducted a detailed search and discovered shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of the slain personnel.

“The remains were subsequently exhumed and secured for forensic examination, including DNA analysis, to confirm their identities.

“Efforts are ongoing to liaise with the families of the deceased to ensure proper identification and facilitate dignified burial arrangements,” the report said.

It added that the operation underscored the army’s commitment to justice for fallen personnel and the continued dismantling of criminal networks in the South-east.

READ ALSO: Troops arrest notorious IPOB commander, four others who allegedly killed police officer

“The discovery further exposes the atrocities of IPOB/ESN elements and their disregard for human life,” the report stated.

The army reassured the public of its resolve to sustain operations until all criminal elements are “neutralised” and lasting peace restored in the region.

It also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.

Army destroys IPOB/ESN base, discovers remains of soldiers killed in 2022

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