Troops recover body of slain community leader in Enugu

Abdullateef Fowewe

Troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, operating under Operation UDO KA and the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY II, have recovered and exhumed the remains of the late Chief Ibe Anyadu of Aggah Community, allegedly killed by suspected members of a criminal gang recently arrested over violent crimes in the region.

The exhumation took place on 2 August 2026 after a suspect reportedly confessed during interrogation and led troops to a shallow grave in Umudike Forest, one of the gang’s known hideouts.

According to a statement obtained from the Nigerian army on Monday, the operation followed recent intelligence-led raids that led to the arrest of suspects linked to the killing of a Nigerian Army soldier and the recovery of stolen service weapons.

“One of the suspects confessed to involvement in the murder of Chief Anyadu and volunteered to lead troops to the burial site,” the statement said.

The remains were exhumed in the presence of family members, vigilante personnel from Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, and representatives of Aggah and Umudike communities.

The family also provided a coffin and ambulance to ensure what the military described as a dignified burial in line with the deceased’s customs and traditions.

Commander, 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 the late community leader.

He also assured the family and residents of Aggah Community that justice would be served and that the suspects would face prosecution under Nigerian law.

“The suspects will be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement added.

Headquarters Operation UDO KA said it remains committed to dismantling criminal networks, prosecuting perpetrators of violent crimes, and helping victims’ families find closure through lawful processes.

The military urged the public to continue sharing timely and credible information to support ongoing security operations in the South-East.