Imo Police Neutralise Six ESN Kingpins, Recover Arms and Ammunition
Police operatives in Imo State have eliminated six members of a terrorist group, including three identified kingpins of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a high-stakes operation.
Acting on credible intelligence, the tactical unit of the Imo State Command launched a coordinated operation targeting a suspected terrorist hideout in Ihube Forest, Okigwe Local Government Area. As officers approached, they were met with heavy gunfire from IPOB/ESN operatives but bravely engaged the attackers in a fierce shootout.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the operation led to the “neutralisation of six members of the terrorist group.” Among the kingpins were 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.
The police recovered an arsenal of weaponry, including five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication equipment, and eight operational motorcycles used by the group.
Investigations revealed that the group was linked to multiple high-profile crimes, including the April 5, 2021, attack on the Owerri Correctional Centre, the December 12, 2022, killing of five policemen in Umunna, and the February 8, 2022, burning of the Arondizuogu Police Station. The group was also implicated in several kidnappings, such as the abductions of WAEC staff, four reverend sisters, and four Chinese nationals in separate incidents.
The statement by ACP Adejobi emphasized the importance of the operation as part of the Nigeria Police Force’s broader effort to enhance public safety.
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“The Nigeria Police Force remains unyielding in its goal towards ensuring national security and public safety,” the statement read.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, lauded the operatives for their bravery and urged all commands to sustain the momentum in reducing crime rates. He reiterated the need for public vigilance and cooperation with the police to maintain peace and security.
The operation marks a significant victory in the ongoing fight against terrorism and underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the nation.
