After four years, Nigerian Army recovers bones of slain couple en route traditional wedding
Troops of the Nigerian Army have recovered the remains of two personnel, Gloria Mathew and Linus Musa, who were abducted and killed in 2022 while travelling to Imo State for their traditional wedding.
The victims, Linus Musa Audu and Gloria Mathew, were reportedly attacked along the Ubaha–Orsu axis by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network.
The couple had been on their way to Gloria’s hometown for their traditional marriage ceremony—an event meant to unite their families—when they were abducted and later killed.
Nearly four years after the incident, troops of the 82 Division, in collaboration with other security agencies, launched a clearance operation on April 24, 2026, targeting the area based on fresh intelligence.
During the mission, soldiers reportedly came under heavy attack, including an ambush and subsequent assault by armed elements. However, they repelled the attackers and proceeded with the operation.
Following an extensive search, the troops discovered shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the deceased personnel. The bodies were exhumed and taken for forensic analysis.
Military sources said efforts are ongoing to reach the families for DNA verification to confirm identities before burial.
The Nigerian Army has indicated that once identification is complete, the fallen personnel will be given a full military burial in honour of their service and sacrifice.
Read Also: Unknown gunmen kill soldiers on their way to their wedding in Imo State
