Troops of the 82 Division and Joint Task Force South-East have arrested a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network during security operations in Imo State.

The arrest was disclosed in an operational report made available on Monday in Abuja.

According to the report, the suspect, identified as Onyebuchi Dara, 28, from Etinasa community in Orsu Local Government Area, was apprehended at Ehioma Junction following intelligence linked to previous attacks on security personnel.

The report stated that the suspect had earlier benefited from an amnesty programme but later went into hiding after allegedly fearing attacks from a suspected armed group leader identified as “Gentle the Yahoo.”

It added that preliminary interrogation indicated the suspect allegedly admitted being present during the killing of two soldiers, retired MWO Linus Musa and Private Gloria Matthew, at Ubaha-Orsu in 2022.

Security authorities said the suspect is currently in custody while investigations continue to identify and apprehend other members of the network.

In a separate operation, troops conducting clearance patrols along the Akwu-Udah axis reportedly discovered five Improvised Explosive Devices in an abandoned location.

The explosives were safely neutralised by Explosive Ordnance Disposal experts, preventing possible danger to civilians and security personnel.

Troops also recovered military uniforms, vigilante uniforms, boots, and other items suspected to have been used for impersonation and operational activities by criminal elements.

The military said operations in the area are ongoing as part of sustained efforts to dismantle armed groups and improve security across the South-East region.