Odita Sunday 
In a sweeping and high-intensity assault, troops of the Joint Task Force South East under Operation UDO KA have stormed and dismantled a notorious criminal enclave known as “Mother Valley” in Nkwere, Anambra State, crushing what security sources described as a long-standing stronghold of IPOB/ESN elements.
The operation, carried out on February 26, 2026, saw combined forces of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps launch a daring final foot advance into the difficult and restricted terrain of the valley. The troops reportedly fought for over three hours, pushing through fierce resistance to dominate the area.
According to the Joint Task Force, the armed group deployed locally made hand-held improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and heavy gunfire in a desperate bid to halt the troops’ advance. However, the security operatives overwhelmed the hostile elements, neutralising one suspected member of the group, while others fled with gunshot wounds.
Security sources confirmed that the operation significantly disrupted the group’s defensive positions and operational coordination within the valley.
During the clearance, troops recovered a cache of weapons and logistics, including two pump-action guns, one locally fabricated firearm, a tear gas gun, seven gas cylinders, an electric kettle, and flags believed to be linked to extremist propaganda.
Troops also destroyed structures described as the terrorists’ “Supreme Headquarters,” including solar panels and a Mikano generator, thereby crippling the group’s operational support systems.
In a related development, an ambush team arrested two suspected IPOB members within the area. One of the suspects was reportedly intercepted while attempting to plant an IED, while the other was identified as a spy allegedly monitoring troop movements.
Security operatives also recovered a KIA saloon car and a black Toyota Sequoia jeep from what was described as a terrorist car park inside the valley.
The suspects are currently in custody undergoing profiling and further investigation, as troops sustain aggressive clearance operations aimed at preventing any regrouping.
Military authorities said the operation sends a clear warning that criminal elements will find no sanctuary within the region, reaffirming the commitment of security forces to dismantle violent networks and safeguard law-abiding citizens across the South East.
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