The operation, conducted on Thursday, targeted a forested area known as “Mother Valley” in Nkwere, identified by the military as a key command and control centre for criminal elements. The Nigerian Army confirmed the operation in a statement posted on its official X handle on Friday.

According to the statement, troops navigated difficult terrain for over three hours before breaching the defensive positions of the suspected insurgents. “The combined troops demonstrated exceptional courage, discipline, and professionalism to penetrate and dominate the valley despite fierce resistance,” the statement said.

The suspects reportedly deployed improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and heavy gunfire in an attempt to repel the troops. Despite the resistance, the joint force—comprising the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps—overpowered the group. One suspected IPOB member was killed, while several others sustained gunshot wounds but escaped.

During a follow-up search, troops recovered two pump-action guns, a locally made firearm, a tear gas launcher, seven gas cylinders reportedly used for IEDs, and flags linked to extremist propaganda. They also destroyed life-support structures in the camp, including solar panels and a Mikano generator used as the group’s command centre. “This dealt a critical blow to their operational sustainability,” the statement added.

In a related development, two suspected members of the group were arrested—one allegedly while planting an IED, the other monitoring troop movements. Troops also seized a KIA saloon and a black Toyota Sequoia from the location.
The suspects are now in custody undergoing profiling and investigation.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to clearing the South-East of criminal elements and restoring security. “This decisive operation sends a clear and unmistakable warning to all criminal elements: there will be no hiding place, no sanctuary, and no escape,” the statement concluded.