By: Bayero Ade
The Imo State Police Command has successfully neutralized three high-ranking members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), following a well-coordinated operation on January 24.
According to Afripost, in a statement released on Saturday, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the operation was based on credible intelligence.
Police operatives launched a targeted assault on a hideout in a forested area within Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area. Upon arrival, they encountered intense gunfire from the ESN militants. Despite the fierce exchange, the police operatives managed to overpower the group, resulting in the elimination of six ESN members, including three key leaders.
The slain leaders were identified as Ifeanyi Anayo, 28, also known as Zuma De Rock; Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe, 22, aka Nmimi; and Kingsley Sunday, 21, all from Ogube, Ihube.
The operation also led to the recovery of a significant arsenal, including five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), communication equipment, and eight motorcycles used by the group.
The ESN has been linked to numerous criminal activities, including the attack on the Owerri Correctional Center on April 5, 2021, the killing of five police officers in Umunna, Okigwe, on December 12, 2022, and the destruction of the Arondizuogu Police Station in February 2022. The group has also been involved in high-profile kidnappings, including the abduction of WAEC officials in June 2023, four reverend sisters in August 2022, and four Chinese nationals in December 2023.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the police operatives for their bravery and urged law enforcement agencies across the country to remain vigilant in combating criminal activity, particularly as the new year unfolds. He reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to maintaining national security and public safety.
The public was also encouraged to stay alert and work closely with the police to promote peace and security across the nation.
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