Troops of Sector 1, Operation UDO KA, have destroyed a suspected ritual shrine and recovered improvised explosive devices during a raid targeting alleged members of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, in Imezi Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The Nigerian Army disclosed this in a statement released on Friday by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Olabisi Ayeni.
According to the Army, the operation was carried out on May 6 alongside other security agencies following intelligence reports linking some individuals in the community to terrorist activities.
The military said troops on an intelligence-driven patrol came under heavy attack from gunmen operating from a building allegedly used as a hideout by IPOB and ESN members.
It added that three soldiers sustained injuries during the gun battle and were later evacuated to a military medical facility for treatment.
“While troops were advancing into the community on foot, they came under attack from a building, leading to injuries to three personnel.
“Despite the attack, troops maintained control of the situation, repelled the gunmen and secured the area,” the statement said.
The Army further revealed that improvised explosive devices allegedly stored inside the building exploded during the exchange of fire, sparking a blaze that razed the structure.
“During the gun duel, improvised explosive devices kept inside the hideout detonated, causing a fire outbreak that destroyed the building,” the statement added.
The military said troops later recovered more IEDs, locally made hand grenades and a shrine allegedly used for ritual activities during a search operation around the area.
According to the statement, the shrine was thoroughly searched and eventually destroyed to stop further criminal use.
One suspected collaborator was also arrested during the operation and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Ezeagu Division, for further investigation.
The Army urged residents to remain calm and avoid harbouring criminal elements within their communities.
It also warned members and supporters of IPOB and ESN to stay away from illegal activities or face the full weight of the law.
“Security forces remain committed to restoring peace in the region and will continue to dismantle criminal networks while denying terrorists freedom of operation,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, videos circulating online showed several buildings engulfed in flames, with some residents alleging that no fewer than seven compounds and about 10 houses were destroyed during the incident.