Troops Overrun ‘Mother Valley’ as JTF South East Dismantles IPOB/ESN Enclave in Nkwere
Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) South East under Operation UDO KA have stormed and dismantled a notorious criminal enclave known as “Mother Valley” in Nkwere, Anambra State, in what security authorities described as a decisive and coordinated assault on IPOB/ESN elements operating in the area.
The operation, carried out on February 26, 2026, involved personnel of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
According to a statement released by the task force, troops launched a final foot assault into the valley, long identified as a stronghold of members of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network.
Security sources said the troops advanced for over three hours through difficult and restricted terrain, encountering fierce resistance. The assailants reportedly deployed locally made hand-held improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and engaged in heavy gunfire in an attempt to repel the advancing forces.
Despite the resistance, the combined troops were said to have overwhelmed the hostile elements. One suspected IPOB member was neutralised during the exchange, while several others reportedly fled with gunshot wounds, effectively collapsing the group’s defensive positions within the valley.
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The task force disclosed that a cache of weapons and logistical materials was recovered during the operation. Items seized include two pump-action guns, a locally fabricated firearm, a tear gas gun, seven gas cylinders, an electric kettle, and flags linked to extremist propaganda.
Troops also destroyed what was described as the terrorists’ “Supreme Headquarters” within the valley, dismantling life-support structures such as solar panels and a Mikano generator, in a move aimed at crippling the group’s operational sustainability.
In a related development, two suspected IPOB members were apprehended during a separate ambush operation. One of the suspects was allegedly caught attempting to plant an IED, while the other was identified as a spy monitoring troop movements.
Security operatives also recovered a KIA saloon car and a black Toyota Sequoia jeep from a makeshift terrorist car park within the enclave.
The suspects are currently in custody undergoing profiling and further investigation, while troops continue clearance operations in and around the area to prevent any regrouping by criminal elements.
Military authorities said the operation underscores the resolve of the Nigerian Armed Forces and allied security agencies to deny violent groups any safe haven in the South East.
Law-abiding residents were assured of sustained security presence and protection, as clearance and stabilisation efforts continue across the region.