The Imo State Police Command has successfully dismantled a camp believed to be operated by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant faction, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), located in Nempi, within the Oru West Local Government Area.
In a statement issued in Owerri and shared with the press on Sunday, ASP Henry Okoye, the command’s spokesman, outlined that this operation is part of the police’s ongoing initiative to combat terrorism and enhance public safety throughout the state.
Okoye reported that the operation, executed by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit on Saturday, resulted in the arrest of 29 individuals, comprising 25 males and four females.
The operation was sparked by the earlier apprehension of a key suspect, Emmanuel Anukuru, 25, on September 15, in Mgbidi, near Owerri. His crucial confessions enabled police forces to locate and disband the camp.
During the raid, authorities recovered a significant cache of weapons, including four pump-action guns, two homemade revolvers, five locally manufactured pistols, and three AK-47 magazines. Additional items seized included a Point of Sale (POS) machine, 20 live cartridges, one white SUV, and various local bulletproof charms associated with the criminal group.
Moreover, a sum of N200,000, reportedly extorted from kidnapping victims, was also recovered.
“These discoveries highlight the ongoing threat posed by these groups in the region. Investigations are actively underway, and efforts are being made to track down the manufacturers of the locally produced firearms,” Okoye emphasized.
He urged community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities while assuring residents of the police command’s unwavering commitment to public safety.
