The Troops of Joint Task Force South East, operating under Operation UDO KA (OPUK), have raided and destroyed the notorious Supreme Headquarters of the Indigenous People of Biafara (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The operation, which commenced on 11 February 2024, has seen a series of successful clearance and liberation missions in various areas, culminating in the destruction of the last stronghold of the separatist groups located in the Mother Valley spanning Orsu and Ihiala LGAs of Imo and Anambra States.
The well-concealed headquarters, situated about 5,000 feet below sea level, served as the command and control center for IPOB/ESN activities. Despite its strategic location, the gallant troops encountered and neutralized numerous obstacles, including Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), during the raid. Many terrorists were subdued, while others fled into the bush with gunshot wounds.
The recovered items from the Mother Valley include a cache of weapons, equipment, IEDs, stolen vehicles, and various incriminating materials. Among the seized items are rifles, automatic pump-action rifles, pistols, rocket-propelled grenade bombs, ammunition, communication devices, electronic gadgets, and insignia associated with IPOB/ESN.
Major General Hassan Taiwo Dada, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA, expressed appreciation for the cooperation of sister services and other security agencies in achieving this milestone. He also called on leaders of liberated communities to ensure the prevention of criminal elements from re-entering their territories, emphasizing the JTF’s commitment to providing security support within the confines of the law.
Law-abiding citizens are urged to provide timely and actionable information to aid in maintaining peace and fostering socio-economic development in the South East geopolitical zone.
