Photos: Four Years After, Army ‘Recovers Remains’ Of Slain Soldier, Fiancée In Imo

Troops of the Nigerian Army have recovered the remains of two personnel killed in 2022 while travelling for their traditional wedding in Imo State.

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Naija News reports that the victims, Master Warrant Officer (retd) Linus Musa Audu and Lance Corporal Gloria Mathew, were abducted and killed by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) along the Ubaha–Orsu axis of the state.

The couple had set out in April 2022 for Gloria’s hometown in Imo for their traditional wedding.

Colleagues described their relationship as one built on mutual respect and shared sacrifice, as they maintained their bond despite being posted in different parts of the country.

Their journey, however, ended in tragedy after they were abducted and later killed by armed elements.

According to Zagagola Makama, military sources said troops of the 82 Division, in collaboration with other security agencies, launched a targeted search operation on April 24, 2026, based on fresh intelligence.

During the operation, soldiers reportedly came under heavy attack but repelled the assailants after a fierce gun battle.

The troops proceeded with the mission and discovered shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the slain personnel.

The remains have been recovered and are to undergo forensic examination, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities before burial.

The military is said to be making efforts to contact the families of the deceased to facilitate proper identification.

The Nigerian Army has pledged to give the fallen personnel a befitting burial with full military honours, in recognition of their service and sacrifice.

The killings occurred amid ongoing insecurity in parts of the South-East, where attacks by armed groups have affected both civilians and security personnel.