Nigerian troops under Operation Eastern Sanity have recorded another operational breakthrough in the ongoing campaign against the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), following the destruction of a major insurgent stronghold in Anambra State. The latest development comes as security forces intensify coordinated clearance operations aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure and restoring lasting peace across the South-East. The operation is expected to enhance security and stability in the region, allowing for resumed economic activities and improved livelihoods for residents.
On 3 March 2026, troops working in close coordination with other security agencies and supported by Nigerian Air Force air assets advanced on Camp Gbadoanya located in Orsumoghu, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State. The camp, believed to be a strategic operational base for IPOB/ESN fighters, had been under surveillance as part of ongoing intelligence-driven operations in the region.
During the assault, the joint force successfully cleared the camp and surrounding enclaves used by the insurgents. Several hideouts and operational facilities within the camp were thoroughly searched, exploited and destroyed. Security sources confirmed that a cache of weapons and operational materials were recovered during the operation. Among the items were pump-action guns, locally fabricated dane guns, assorted rifle magazines, rifle components, belts of ammunition and cutting machines used for weapons fabrication.
Troops also recovered symbolic and propaganda materials linked to the separatist group, including Biafran currencies, a Biafran flag, and a Biafran Army Headquarters flag, alongside musical instruments reportedly belonging to a so-called “Biafran Army Band.” In a symbolic show of state authority, the troops destroyed the separatist flags and hoisted the Nigerian national flag over the cleared camp.
Operations in the area continued on 4 March 2026, with troops further dismantling additional hideouts within the wider Camp Gbadoanya complex. During the follow-up sweep, soldiers uncovered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) fabrication site, which had been used by the militants to manufacture explosives for attacks. The facility was carefully exploited by explosive ordnance experts before being safely destroyed.
Recovered materials from the IED factory included welding machines, drilling machines, filling machines, car batteries, an electrode welding handle, twelve locally fabricated guns and multiple rifle components, along with other bomb-making equipment. Military authorities say the discovery highlights the growing reliance of the insurgent group on improvised weapons production as sustained military pressure continues to degrade their operational capabilities.
Security officials added that Operation Eastern Sanity will maintain its aggressive tempo, with troops continuing intelligence-driven raids and clearance missions across Anambra and Imo States to dismantle remaining terrorist enclaves. The Armed Forces have also reassured residents of the South-East of their commitment to protecting lives and property, urging communities to continue providing credible information that could aid ongoing operations.
Defence analysts note that the destruction of logistics hubs and explosives fabrication sites represents a critical step in weakening the operational capacity of armed separatist groups in the region. With sustained joint operations and air-ground coordination, security forces appear determined to deny insurgent elements the freedom to regroup, while gradually restoring stability across affected communities in the South-East.
