reports that the Nigerian Army said the operation was targeted at suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Olabisi Ayeni.

According to the statement, the operation took place on May 6 in coordination with other security agencies following intelligence reports about alleged terrorist collaborators in the area.

The Army said troops conducting an intelligence-led patrol came under fire from armed men operating from a building allegedly used as a hideout by IPOB and ESN members.

It added that three soldiers sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire and were evacuated to a military medical facility for treatment.

“The troops, while advancing on foot, were attacked from a building, resulting in injuries to three personnel. Despite the attack, troops maintained operational dominance, foiled the ambush and secured the general area,” the statement said.

Explosives Detonated During Operation

The Army further stated that improvised explosive devices allegedly stored inside the building detonated during the gun battle, sparking a fire that destroyed the structure.

“During the exchange of fire, improvised explosive devices stored by the terrorists in the building used as their hideout detonated and triggered a fire outbreak that destroyed the hideout,” it added.

Following the operation, troops reportedly recovered additional IEDs, improvised grenades, and a shrine allegedly used for ritual purposes during a subsequent search of the area.

The military said the shrine was destroyed to prevent further use for criminal activities.

One suspected collaborator was also arrested and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Ezeagu Division, for further investigation.

Residents were urged to remain calm and avoid harbouring criminal elements, while warning was issued to suspected IPOB/ESN members to desist from illegal activities.

The statement added that security forces remain committed to dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace in the region.

Meanwhile, videos circulating online showed several buildings engulfed in flames, with residents alleging that multiple compounds and houses were destroyed during the incident.

Some residents also claimed that an elderly woman who was ill was trapped inside one of the affected buildings.