The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says the air component of Operation Udo Ka II has destroyed several camps and hideouts of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the militant wing of the proscribed Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) in Imo and Anambra states.
The news of the successful bombing was made known to the public via a statement issued by the Nigerian Air Force public relations and information director, Edward Gabkwet.
Gabkwet said the strikes were carried out on Tuesday at separate locations — Mother Valley Orsumughu in Nnewi south LGA of Anambra State and Aku Ihube in Okigwe LGA of Imo.
According to him, prior to the operation, the troops had received intelligence of the planned disruption of civic activities across the south-eastern states by ESN fighters.
The NAF spokesperson stated that the air team, in conjunction with ground troops, targeted certain locations based on credible intelligence indicating that IPOB/ESN militants were planning to disrupt civil activities across the States of the South East. The airforce strike also targeted locations housing the ESN armoury.
“We acted on credible intelligence that IPOB/ESN terrorists had perfected plans to disrupt civic activities lined up in the coming days in Anambra and other southeastern states,” Gabkwet said.
“The air strikes were authorised in conjunction with ground troops and other security agencies on the location believed to also house some of their weapons and ammunitions.
“The strikes hit the target and were deemed successful following the ball of fire, fleeing terrorists at the location, as well as feedback received.”
“While the determination of the security agencies is unwavering, the support of all Nigerians to the security agencies remains critical to defeating these criminal elements whose only intent is to sow fear and division among the citizenry,” the NAF spokesperson added.