The Nigerian Army says its troops have discovered shallow graves in Imo state believed to contain the remains of two personnel killed in 2022.
In a statement on Saturday, the army said the discovery was made during a clearance operation targeting a camp of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The army said the graves were found on April 24 along the Ubaha Orsu axis of Orsu LGA.
According to the statement, the remains are suspected to be those of Audu Linus, a retired master warrant officer, and Gloria Matthew, a private who were abducted and killed in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding.
The army said the discovery followed an intelligence-led operation by troops of the 82 Division, in collaboration with other security agencies, to dismantle IPOB/ESN hideouts in the area.
According to the statement, troops came under heavy attack as they advanced towards the camp but repelled multiple ambushes and forced the assailants to retreat.
“The troops decisively engaged the terrorists, successfully repelling the attacks and forcing them to flee in disarray,” the statement reads.
“Following the clearance of the camp, a thorough search led to the discovery of shallow graves suspected to contain the remains of the slain personnel.”
The army said the graves were excavated and the remains recovered for further examination.
The statement noted that the bodies have been secured for forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities.
The army said efforts are ongoing to liaise with the families of the deceased to facilitate identification and burial arrangements.
The military added that the operation underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the south-east and ensure justice for fallen personnel.
The army urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies, while reaffirming its commitment to restoring peace in the region.
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