Operatives of the Imo Police Command’s Tactical Unit have neutralised three notorious leaders of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The operation took place in a forest hideout in Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area, on January 24, following credible intelligence.
According to Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police were met with heavy fire upon approaching the hideout but engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle. The operation resulted in the neutralisation of six members of the terrorist group, including three key ESN kingpins: Ifeanyi Anayo (a.k.a. Zuma De Rock), 28; Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe (a.k.a. Nmimi), 22; and Kingsley Sunday, 21, all from Ogube, Ihube in Okigwe.
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In addition to the casualties, police recovered five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), communication equipment, and eight operational motorcycles used by the group. Investigations have linked the group to several high-profile criminal activities, including the 2021 Owerri Correctional Center attack and the 2022 killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe.
The group has also been involved in kidnappings, including the abduction of WAEC staff in 2023, four reverend sisters in 2022, and four Chinese nationals in late 2023.
Adejobi conveyed the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun’s commendation for the bravery of the operatives, urging officers across the country to maintain momentum and focus on the Force’s crime-reduction strategy for the first quarter of 2025.
The IGP emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring national security and public safety. He also encouraged citizens to stay vigilant and collaborate with law enforcement to promote peace and safety.
