The Police Tactical Unit in Imo State has shot dead three known ringleaders of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed group of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
ACP spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi said this while speaking with journalists on Saturday in Owerri.
Adejobi, the Assistant Commissioner of Police, said on January 24, acting on credible intelligence, the police discovered and launched a joint operation to hide criminals in the forest inside Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area.
“When approached, the operatives, who were threatened by the suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists, showed extraordinary bravery and engaged in fierce fighting.
“The operation led to the demobilization of six members of the gang, three of whom were ESN chieftains identified as Ifeanyi Anayo, alias Zuma De Rock, 28; Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe aka Nmimi, 22; and Kingsley Sunday, 21; all indigenes of Ogube, Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area,” he said.
Mr. Adejobi said five AK-47 rifles, 552 live ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), several communication devices, and eight motorcycles used by the group were found at the scene.
According to him, previous investigations revealed the group’s involvement in several major crimes, including the attack on the Owerri Correctional Center on 5 April 2021.
Adejobi said the terrorists involved in the killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe, on December 12, 2022, and the burning of Arondizuogu Police Station on February 8, 2022.
“The group also carried out several robberies, including WAEC workers on June 5, 2023, four religious sisters on August 21, 2022, and four Chinese nationals on December 6, 2023,” he said.
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He commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun for the bravery and exceptional courage of the personnel.
“The IGP calls on the police in all command and units to improve the capacity and implement the plan of the Armed Forces which aims to reduce crime significantly in the first quarter of the year 2025.
“The Nigeria Police Force continues to remain steadfast in its mission to ensure national security and public safety,” he said.
The Army spokesman urged the public to be vigilant and work with the Nigerian police to promote peace and ensure the safety of all citizens.
(IN)
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