Troops Recover Suspected Remains of Slain Army Couple in Imo

T The Nigerian Army has confirmed the recovery of suspected human remains believed to belong to a military couple killed in 2022, following a clearance operation in Imo State.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday, April 24, detailing an intelligence-driven operation carried out by troops of the 82 Division along the Ubaha Orsu axis of Orsu Local Government Area.

According to the Army, the mission targeted a suspected camp of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), with the objective of dismantling the hideout and locating the remains of Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew.

The couple had been abducted and killed in May 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding.

“Acting on credible intelligence, troops conducted a deliberate clearance and search mission within the area to dislodge IPOB/ESN elements and locate the remains of two personnel who were abducted and murdered while en route for their traditional wedding,” the statement read.

The Army revealed that after securing the area, troops discovered multiple shallow graves suspected to contain human remains.

It stated that the graves were carefully excavated, leading to the recovery of remains believed to be those of the slain personnel.

The recovered remains have been taken into custody for comprehensive forensic examination, including DNA testing, to establish their identities.

The Army added that it is working closely with the families of the deceased to ensure proper identification and to arrange befitting burials in recognition of their service and sacrifice.