The Defence Headquarters Nigeria has announced the arrest of senior commanders and logistics operatives linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja while briefing journalists on ongoing military operations nationwide. He stated that the arrests were carried out under Operation UDO KA during coordinated intelligence-led operations across the South-East in April. According to Onoja, the apprehension of high-value IPOB/ESN operatives represents a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle separatist and criminal networks in the region. He added that troops also neutralised three terrorists, arrested multiple suspects, and rescued kidnapped victims during sustained engagements. The military further revealed that those arrested include key logistics handlers and financiers allegedly responsible for supporting kidnapping, armed attacks, and other criminal activities. Intelligence-driven raids on identified hideouts in forested areas led to the recovery of weapons, communication equipment, and ransom proceeds, while several camps and shrines were destroyed. Onoja noted that air-supported operations forced armed groups to abandon their positions, leading to the dislodgement of criminal elements and disruption of their operational networks. In the South-South region, he said troops intensified operations against crude oil theft, illegal refining, and pipeline vandalism. Several illegal refining sites were dismantled across creeks and forest communities, with over 101,000 litres of stolen crude oil and refined products recovered. Seventeen suspects were also arrested in connection with oil theft and related economic crimes. He added that troops successfully rescued kidnapped victims during rapid response operations, often forcing criminals to abandon their captives under sustained pressure. Follow-up actions led to additional arrests and the destruction of active criminal cells operating in riverine and forested areas. Onoja affirmed that troops remain strategically deployed across waterways and hinterlands to deny criminal elements freedom of operation and safeguard critical national infrastructure. He emphasized that ongoing operations have significantly degraded criminal and separatist networks, disrupted illegal economic activities, and improved security in affected communities. He reassured Nigerians of the Armed Forces’ commitment to maintaining pressure on all threats to national security and economic stability, stressing that the military remains resolute in protecting the country’s peace and assets.