By Erewunmi Peace

Troops of the Nigerian Army have uncovered suspected shallow graves believed to be linked to a missing army couple during a recent operation in Imo State.

According to a statement released by the Nigerian Army, the discovery was made during a raid on a forest enclave allegedly associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

The graves are suspected to contain the remains of a female soldier and her fiancé, who were reportedly abducted in 2022 while traveling for their traditional wedding.

Military authorities stated that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal hideouts and restore security in the region.

Items recovered at the site reportedly include weapons and other materials linked to insurgent activities.

However, the army emphasized that the identities of the bodies have not yet been officially confirmed, noting that forensic examinations, including DNA testing, will be required to establish whether the remains belong to the missing couple.

Security operations in parts of southeastern Nigeria have intensified in recent years amid clashes involving separatist groups and government forces.

The Nigerian Army assured the public that efforts to track down perpetrators and ensure justice are ongoing.