Troops Reopen Strategic Road After Three Years, Neutralise Bomb-Making Factory in Imo Clearance Operations
By Rashidat Olushola Okunlade
Troops under Operation UDO KA have sustained intensified joint clearance operations across parts of Imo State as part of Operation EASTERN SANITY, aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts and restoring peace in affected communities.
The ongoing operations, conducted in the Orsu–Eketutu Mother Valley and Orsu–Ihiteukwa general areas, are focused on eliminating Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) planted by criminal elements and facilitating the safe return of displaced residents forced to flee due to the activities of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
In a major breakthrough on 6 March 2026, troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, working in collaboration with personnel of the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, carried out a joint clearance operation along the Lilu–Eketutu Road in Orsu–Eketutu Mother Valley.
The strategic route, regarded as a critical lifeline for surrounding communities, had remained deserted for over three years due to persistent attacks and threats by IPOB/ESN militants. During the operation, several IEDs planted at various points along the road were discovered. Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists successfully disconnected and safely recovered the devices, thereby preventing potential casualties and restoring safe access for commuters and residents.
In a related development on 11 March 2026, troops conducted further clearance operations in the Orsu–Ihiteukwa general area, targeting suspected IED locations along key access routes. Several explosive devices detonated along the troops’ axis of advance; however, personnel maintained operational momentum.
The operation led to the discovery of an IPOB/ESN bomb-making facility within the area. A thorough exploitation of the site resulted in the recovery of Biafran flags and insignia, rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, pipes used for priming IEDs, pistol magazines loaded with ammunition, double-barrel guns, CCTV cameras, as well as multiple electrical wires and clips suspected to have been used in the fabrication of explosive devices.
EOD teams also uncovered additional concealed IEDs within the vicinity. All explosives were carefully disconnected, recovered, and safely destroyed.
The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal networks threatening peace and security across Imo State and the wider South-East region.
Members of the public have been urged to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, emphasising that community cooperation remains vital to dismantling criminal syndicates and restoring lasting peace. Operation UDO KA remains dedicated to protecting law-abiding citizens, safeguarding lives and property, and strengthening regional stability.
