Security Forces Cripple Insurgent Networks, Top IPOB Chief Among 27 Killed
The Nigerian Army has announced a significant breakthrough in its anti-insurgency efforts, revealing that a series of coordinated, intelligence-driven operations conducted between October 8 and 11, 2025, led to the elimination of a high-ranking separatist commander, the neutralization of multiple terrorists, and the apprehension of numerous criminal suspects across the nation.
In total, 27 terrorists and criminal elements were taken out, and 22 suspects were detained for various offenses including terrorism, banditry, and drug trafficking.
Troops also successfully freed five kidnapped victims during the focused interventions.
In the South East, Operation UDO KA forces successfully tracked and cornered a notorious commander of the proscribed IPOB/ESN separatist group, identified only by his alias, ‘Alhaji’.
The operation took place at his hideout in Ezza-Eyimaggu, Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
According to military reports, ‘Alhaji’ was neutralized following a brief struggle after he attempted to disarm a soldier during the arrest attempt.
Simultaneously, in Imo State, troops from the 34 Artillery Brigade discovered and dismantled an IPOB/ESN shrine in Mbaitoli LGA, which was reportedly used for criminal indoctrination.
The counter-insurgency campaign in the North East yielded substantial results against the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and JAS factions. Along the Gajiram–Bolori–Mile 40–Gajiganna Road in Borno State, troops, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force, engaged insurgents, resulting in four terrorists being killed.
They also rescued two civilian hostages and recovered over ₦4.3 million in cash and two mobile phones seized by the terrorists.
Further successes included the neutralization of five terrorists by the 109 Special Forces Battalion in Magumeri, with the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and associated ammunition.
In a sign of internal breakdown, three ISWAP/JAS members surrendered to troops in Monguno, citing disillusionment and fatigue after fleeing the Timbuktu Triangle area.
In Sokoto State, intelligence-led air strikes by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA targeted a gathering at Gebe Primary School in Isa LGA, reportedly leading to the decimation of several terrorist leaders and their fighters.
The military units seized a large cache of weapons, including AK-47 rifles, assorted ammunition, motorcycles, and charms, underscoring the scale of criminal activity being addressed.
The Nigerian Army affirmed its continued resolve to maintain a secure environment, aiming to boost crucial economic and agricultural activities nationwide.
