Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Operation UDO KA have uncovered a shallow grave and exhumed the remains of a community leader allegedly murdered by a criminal gang in Imo State.
The breakthrough was recorded by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade during the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY II, following intelligence-led operations targeting violent criminal elements in the South-East.
According to the Army, the recovered remains were identified as those of the late Chief Ibe Anyadu of Aggah Community, who was allegedly killed by members of a criminal gang recently arrested in connection with a series of violent crimes in the region.
The Army said the discovery followed the arrest of suspects linked to the killing of a Nigerian Army soldier and the theft of service weapons. During interrogation, one of the suspects reportedly confessed to participating in the murder of Chief Anyadu and led troops to the burial site.
On August 2, 2026, the suspects guided soldiers to a shallow grave located in the Umudike Forest, described as one of the gang’s operational camps, where the remains of the late community leader were exhumed.
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 facilitate a dignified burial in accordance with local customs and traditions.
Reacting to the development, the Commander of Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, Major General Oluremi Ayobami Fadairo, expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
He assured the family and the people of Aggah Community that those responsible for the killing would face prosecution in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Headquarters of Operation UDO KA reiterated its commitment to ongoing efforts to restore peace and security across the South-East by dismantlinga criminal networks, bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice, and ensuring victims and their families receive closure through lawful processes.
The Army also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, noting that public cooperation remains critical to the success of ongoing operations.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, on August 3, 2026.