The Nigerian Army has announced the recovery of suspected remains of two of its personnel who were reportedly abducted and killed in 2022 by suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network.
The victims, identified as Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, were said to have been attacked while travelling for their traditional wedding in May 2022.
Their remains were reportedly uncovered during a military operation targeting a major IPOB/ESN camp in Imo State.
“The Nigerian Army has recorded another significant operational success in its sustained efforts to rid the South East of criminal elements, as troops of 82 Division, in conjunction with sister services and other security agencies, successfully dismantled a notorious camp belonging to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imo State.
“Acting on intelligence information, the operation, conducted on 24 April 2026 along the Ubaha Orsu axis of Orsu Local Government Area, was part of a deliberate clearance and search mission aimed at dismantling IPOB/ESN hideout within the region and locating the remains of two personnel of the Nigerian Army, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were brutally abducted and murdered by IPOB/ESN terrorists in May 2022 while en route for their traditional wedding,” it said in a statement on its X handle.
According to the Army, troops advanced on the suspected hideout based on actionable intelligence but encountered heavy resistance from armed fighters during the operation.
Despite the attack, the soldiers reportedly held their ground, countered the assault, and neutralised the threat after repelling several ambushes, forcing the assailants to retreat.
“The encounter further exposed the desperation and criminal nature of the group, which continues to target innocent citizens and security personnel alike.
“Following the successful clearance of the camp, troops conducted a thorough search of the area and made a grim but important discovery: shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of the slain personnel. The graves were carefully excavated and suspected remains were recovered,” it stated.
Military authorities confirmed that the recovered remains have been secured and will undergo forensic examination, including DNA analysis, to verify their identities.
The Army added that it is working with the families of the deceased to ensure proper identification and to arrange dignified burial rites in recognition of their service.
It noted that the operation highlights its determination to secure justice for fallen personnel while continuing to dismantle criminal networks linked to IPOB/ESN activities in the South-East.
“The discovery of shallow graves within their camp further exposes the group’s heinous atrocities and disregard for human life.
“The Nigerian Army reassures the general public that ongoing operations will continue until all criminal elements are neutralised and lasting peace is restored across the region. We appreciate the Law-abiding citizens for the information and urge you to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute, professional, and committed to defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria,” the statement added.
