The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has disclosed that over 100 suspects have been apprehended in connection with the recent attack on a military checkpoint in Abia State, where five soldiers lost their lives.
The attack was attributed to the Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN).
In a briefing on Thursday, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated that preliminary investigations led to the release of individuals found not culpable in the assault.
He highlighted that the military has intensified efforts to combat non-state actors, revealing that nine soldiers were killed by such groups in June across various locations in Nigeria.
General Buba did not specify the exact number of detainees assisting military operations but emphasized their role in providing critical intelligence.
The arrests followed a retaliatory stance after IPOB/ESN separatists attacked a military checkpoint at Obikabia Junction, resulting in casualties among soldiers and civilians on May 30, 2024.
Since the incident, troops have conducted extensive intelligence-based operations leading to the discovery and dismantling of several terrorist camps affiliated with IPOB/ESN.
These operations included significant raids on locations such as Igboro Forest in Arochukwu LGA, Abia State.
According to General Buba, “Several arrests were made from the raids with those found to be culpable still in detention. Surely, there is intelligence value to the raids and arrests that were made. Those in detention are assisting troops to locate other camps, sleeper cells and high-profile individuals involved in the activities of the terrorist group.”
The DHQ reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and security across the region, underscoring ongoing efforts to neutralize threats posed by IPOB/ESN and other militant groups.