Troops exhume remains of slain community leader in Imo forest

Troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade under Operation UDO KA have uncovered and exhumed the remains of the late Chief Ibe Anyadu of Aggah Community from a shallow grave in Umudike Forest, following the confession of a suspected criminal recently arrested during security operations in the South-East.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni.

According to the Army, Chief Anyadu was allegedly murdered by members of a criminal gang linked to a series of violent crimes in the region. The breakthrough came after intelligence-led operations resulted in the arrest of suspects connected 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 the community leader and volunteered to lead troops to the burial site.

The statement said that on August 2, 2026, the suspect guided troops to a shallow grave located within Umudike Forest, identified as one of the gang’s hideouts, where the remains of the deceased were successfully exhumed.

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The exhumation was witnessed by members of Chief Anyadu’s family, vigilante personnel from Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, as well as representatives of the Aggah and Umudike communities.

The Army added that the deceased’s family provided a coffin and an ambulance to facilitate a dignified burial in line 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 the late chief’s soul.

He assured the family and residents of Aggah Community that those responsible for the killing would face prosecution in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Fadairo reiterated the commitment of Headquarters Operation UDO KA to sustaining peace-building efforts across the South-East by dismantling criminal networks, bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice, and ensuring victims’ families receive justice through lawful processes.

He also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, describing public cooperation as critical to the success of ongoing security operations.