By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Defence Headquarters has said that troops of Operation UDO KA have raided several training camps of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN) in the South East, and apprehended 25 suspects.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known while briefing newsmen on the operations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on Thursday in Abuja.

Buba said the raid operations were carried out in the last one week following the killing of five soldiers by the group on May 30, around Aba, in Abia.

He said the operations led to the destruction of several camps and killing of 13 terrorists who had been terrorising the zone from their hideouts.

“Additionally, troops arrested violent extremists/IPOB/ESN members in Isiala Mbano and Ohaji/Egbema LGAs of Imo State.

“Furthermore, troops rescued kidnapped hostages in Anambra-West Local Government Area of Anambra State.

“Troops also conducted counter/anti kidnapping operations in Anambra East LGA of Anambra State.

“Overall, troops of Operation UDO KA neutralised 13 terrorists, arrested 25 violent extremists and rescued 15 kidnapped hostages and recovered one AK47 rifle and four dane guns, among others.

“All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action,” he said.

Buba called on all citizens to support the military in its efforts to rid the country of terrorists and other criminal elements. (NAN)