Nigerian Army Retrieved the Remains of a Soldier Couple Murdered by IPOB

Nigerian Army Retrieved the Remains of a Soldier Couple Murdered by IPOB

The Nigerian Army announced that troops from the 82 Division have dismantled a notorious camp linked to the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Imo State.

In a statement released on its official X account, the Army indicated that the troops acted on reliable intelligence to execute the operations on 24 April 2026 along the Ubaha Orsu route in Orsu Local Government Area.

This operation was part of a strategic clearance and search mission aimed at dismantling the IPOB/ESN hideout in the area and locating the remains of two Nigerian Army personnel, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were brutally abducted and killed by terrorists in May 2022 while en route to their traditional wedding.

Upon receiving credible intelligence, the army reported that its troops advanced towards a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout, where they faced heavy fire from armed criminals.

The statement noted that the troops engaged the terrorists decisively, successfully repelling multiple ambushes and forcing the criminals to retreat in disarray.

“The encounter further revealed the desperation and criminal nature of the group, which continues to target innocent citizens and security personnel alike,” the statement remarked.

After successfully clearing the camp, the Nigerian Army stated that the troops conducted a thorough search of the area, leading to the discovery of shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the deceased personnel.

“The graves were meticulously excavated, and the suspected remains were recovered,” the statement added.

The Nigerian Army confirmed that the recovered remains have been secured for detailed forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to definitively establish their identities.

“Efforts are also ongoing to coordinate with the families of the fallen personnel to ensure proper identification and facilitate appropriate burial arrangements in honor of their sacrifice.

“This operation not only highlights the Nigerian Army’s steadfast commitment to ensuring security but also its dedication to honoring the memory of its fallen heroes.