In a major crackdown on insurgency, operatives of the Imo State Police Command have neutralized six suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), including three wanted kingpins.
The operation also led to the destruction of their camps and the recovery of dangerous weapons.
According to a statement from the Force Headquarters, the successful raid was part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region.
The operation, carried out on January 24, 2025, was based on credible intelligence and targeted a forest hideout in Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area.
Upon arrival, police operatives encountered heavy gunfire from the suspected terrorists but swiftly engaged them in a fierce battle, leading to the deaths of six individuals.
Among those neutralized were three identified ESN kingpins: Ifeanyi Anayo a.k.a. Zuma De Rock (28), Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe a.k.a. Nmimi (22), and Kingsley Sunday (21), all natives of Ogube, Ihube.
Recovered items from the camp included five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), communication equipment, and eight operational motorcycles used for their activities.
Investigations revealed the group’s involvement in several high-profile criminal acts, including the April 5, 2021, attack on the Owerri Correctional Center, the December 12, 2022, killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe, and the February 8, 2022, burning of the Arondizuogu Police Station.
They were also linked to multiple kidnappings, including those of WAEC staff, four reverend sisters, and four Chinese nationals.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the officers for their bravery and urged continued efforts to curb crime in the region.
He reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring national security and public safety.
Residents have been encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security across the state.
