Troops Exhume Remains of Slain Community Leader as Operation UDO KA Intensifies Crackdown on Criminal Gangs.

Troops Exhume Remains of Slain Community Leader as Operation UDO KA Intensifies Crackdown on Criminal Gangs

Troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade operating under Operation UDO KA, through the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY II, have recorded another major operational success with the recovery and dignified exhumation of the remains of the late Chief Ibe Anyadu of Aggah Community, who was allegedly murdered by members of a criminal gang recently arrested for violent crimes in the South-East.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the breakthrough followed a series of intelligence-led operations that resulted in the arrest of suspects linked to the killing of a Nigerian Army soldier and the recovery of stolen military weapons.

During interrogation, one of the suspects reportedly confessed to participating in the murder of Chief Anyadu and volunteered to lead troops to the location where the community leader had been buried.

On Saturday, August 2, 2026, the suspects guided troops to a shallow grave located inside the Umudike Forest, identified as one of the criminal gang’s operational camps. The remains of the late Chief were successfully exhumed during the operation.

The exhumation was witnessed by members of the deceased’s family, vigilante personnel from Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, and representatives of the Aggah and Umudike communities. The family provided a coffin and an ambulance to ensure the late community leader received a dignified burial in accordance with local customs and traditions.

Commander of the Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, Major General Oluremi Ayobami Fadairo, expressed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the peaceful repose of Chief Anyadu’s soul. He assured the family and residents of Aggah Community that those responsible for the crime would face the full weight of the law.

“Justice will be served, as the suspects will be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the commander assured.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling criminal networks, restoring peace across the South-East, and bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice. It also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to strengthen ongoing security operations.