The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has launched a
scathing attack on the infrastructure of secessionist violence in the South
East, revealing that troops under Operation UDO KA have successfully
infiltrated and dismantled key administrative hubs of the proscribed Indigenous
People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
In a statement released to journalists on Friday, March 6, 2026, Major General Michael
Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed that intelligence-driven
raids have led to multiple arrests and the recovery of incriminating evidence
linking the group to organized terrorism and criminal impersonation.
"The mask is off," Major General Onoja
declared. "Our troops have uncovered an administrative office used by
these terrorists in Imo State, complete with foreign currency, weapons, and
even Police (MOPOL) shirts bearing Biafran insignias. This is not agitation;
this is an organized attempt to undermine the state and terrorize citizens
using stolen identities."
The operational breakdown reveals a sweeping net
across the region. In Orsu LGA of Imo State, clearance operations forced
terrorists to flee to high ground, allowing troops to seize their command
building. Highly inflammable liquids found on-site were safely destroyed.
Simultaneously, in Boki LGA of Cross River State, a raid on a suspect's
residence yielded locally fabricated pistols and live cartridges, though the
primary suspect escaped. In Ohafia LGA of Abia State, cordon-and-search
operations resulted in the arrest of three suspected ESN terrorists alongside
recovered arms. All suspects and exhibits are in custody for forensic
examination and prosecution.
The Defence Headquarters wishes to address the
public regarding the necessity and conduct of these operations. In recent
times, hostile narratives have sought to paint the military presence in the
South East as oppressive. The DHQ stands firmly against such disinformation.
The recovery of weapons, explosive materials, and police uniforms impersonating
security agents justifies these kinetic actions. The Armed Forces are not here
to suppress legitimate dissent but to protect citizens from armed groups that
extort, kidnap, and kill. Every operation is guided by credible intelligence
and strict rules of engagement to minimize civilian impact while maximizing
threat neutralization.
"We remain committed to the rule of law and
the protection of human rights," the statement read. "However, we will
not hesitate to act decisively against those who take up arms against the
state. The evidence recovered in Orsu proves that these groups are not peace
activists; they are an insurgent network funded by foreign currency and equipped
to kill."
Major General Onoja warned that the noose is
tightening around remaining elements of the group. "To the terrorists
hiding in the forests and communities: your command posts are known, your
supplies are compromised, and your escape routes are cut. Surrender now or face
the full wrath of the law."
The public is urged to continue cooperating with security agencies.
Operation UDO KA remains dedicated to restoring lasting peace to the South
East, ensuring that commerce and daily life can thrive without the shadow of
fear. The DHQ pledges to sustain these efforts until every illegal checkpoint
is removed and every criminal element is brought to justice.