The Nigerian Army has recovered the remains of a community leader, Chief Ibe Anyadu, from a shallow grave in Umudike Forest, Imo State, following an intelligence-led operation linked to the arrest of suspected criminals.
The Army said troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, participating in Operation EASTERN SANITY II, made the discovery on Saturday after interrogating suspects arrested in connection with the killing of a soldier and the theft of military weapons.
According to military authorities, one of the suspects allegedly confessed to taking part in the murder of Chief Anyadu and subsequently led troops to the burial site in the forest, where the remains were recovered.
The exhumation was carried out in the presence of members of the deceased’s family, vigilante personnel from Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, and representatives of the Aggah and Umudike communities.
Following the recovery, the family provided a coffin and an ambulance to transport the remains for burial in line with local customs and traditions.
Commander of the Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, Major General Oluremi Ayobami Fadairo, extended his condolences to the bereaved family and assured them that those responsible for the killing would be prosecuted.
“We assure the family and the people of Aggah Community that justice will be served, as the suspects will be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Fadairo said.
The Army reiterated its commitment to dismantling criminal networks operating across the South-East through sustained security operations and intelligence gathering.
It also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist ongoing operations aimed at improving safety and restoring lasting peace in the region.
