Troops Record Major Operational Successes Nationwide, Arrest High-Profile IPOB/ESN Suspects, Terrorists, Uncover Illegal OIL SITES
By Paul Ebi
In an unrelenting offensive to annihilate terrorist networks and dismantle criminal syndicates, troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded sweeping operational triumphs across multiple theatres within the last 48 hours.
The series of coordinated operations led to the arrest of high-profile IPOB/ESN suspects and 23 other individuals, the neutralization of several terrorists, the surrender of 11 terrorist family members, and the discovery of numerous illegal oil refining sites across the country.
According to military sources, the nationwide onslaughts spanned the North-East, South-East, South-South and North-Central regions — reaffirming the Army’s renewed operational momentum and firm resolve to restore enduring peace and stability across Nigeria.
South-East: IPOB/ESN Strongholds Crushed
In the South-East, troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade carried out a precision strike on IPOB/ESN elements at a known crossing point in Mbaïtoli Local Government Area of Imo State. The operation resulted in the neutralization of three armed militants after a fierce exchange of fire.
Recovered items included one AK-47 rifle, two magazines loaded with 20 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one pump-action rifle, two BAOFENG communication radios and an IED battery — effectively disrupting the group’s coordination hub in the area.
Similarly, troops of the 14 Brigade in Abia State apprehended a notorious enforcer of the illegal sit-at-home order. The operation led to the recovery of two motorcycles, a knife and several ATM cards used in funding their illicit activities.
North-Central: IPOB/ESN Collaborators Arrested
In the North-Central region, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE achieved a major breakthrough with the arrest of four high-profile collaborators linked to wanted IPOB/ESN commander Maduabuchi Nwankwo (aka Emergency) at Iballakwu village in Benue State.
The suspects — including the wife and brothers of the fugitive leader — were found in possession of mobile devices used in coordinating logistics, procuring materials for improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and facilitating financial transactions to fund subversive operations.
North-East: ISWAP and Boko Haram Weakened
In the North-East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI sustained relentless pressure on ISWAP and Boko Haram elements. On 27 October 2025, troops of 19 Brigade in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State foiled a coordinated terrorists’ attack on communities in Kukawa town where insurgents attempted to use civilians as human shields.
A vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) deployed by the terrorists was destroyed by a T-55 tank, while one suicide bomber was neutralized and others fled in disarray.
In a related development, 11 ISWAP/JAS family members — including four adult females and seven children — surrendered to troops at Mayanti and Tango 16 in Bama LGA.
Additionally, troops of the 24 Task Force Brigade on a route clearance patrol along the Dikwa–Ajiri Road uncovered and safely detonated three IEDs, averting potential mass casualties. Sector 3 troops also arrested five suspects during a cordon-and-search operation in Monguno town for further profiling and investigation.
South-South: Crackdown on Oil Thieves
In the South-South, troops intensified the crackdown on oil theft and illegal refining. In Rivers State, multiple illegal refining camps were uncovered containing over 2,600 litres of stolen crude and adulterated diesel, alongside sophisticated refining equipment.
Similarly, troops in Delta State apprehended three suspects and seized a vehicle, a motorcycle and about 4,000 litres of illegally refined condensate during follow-up operations around Ughelli North.
Army Reaffirms Commitment to National Security
These successive operational gains underscore the Nigerian Army’s unyielding resolve to dismantle terror and criminal infrastructures through precision strikes, intelligence-led raids and inter-agency collaboration.
The Army reiterated its commitment to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, assuring citizens that it will sustain the current operational tempo until absolute peace and normalcy are restored nationwide.
