The Nigerian Police Command has revealed how its operatives in the tactical unit in Imo State shot dead three notorious kingpins of Eastern Security Network (ESN). ESN is an armed wing of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Saturday in Owerri.
Adejobi, stated that on 24 January, following credible intelligence, the police operatives located and launched a coordinated operation on the terrorists’ hideout in a forest within Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
He said, “Upon approach, the operatives, who came under heavy fire from suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists, demonstrated exceptional courage. They engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle.
“The operation resulted in the neutralization of six members of the terrorist group. With three being ESN kingpins identified as 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 in Okigwe Local Government Area.”
According to the Force spokesperson, the items recovered during the operation include five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Several communication equipment, and eight operational motorcycles used by the group were also recovered from the scene.
Adejobi noted that prior investigations had revealed the involvement of the group in several high-profile crimes in the State. These, he said, included the attack on the Owerri Correctional Centre on April 5, 2021.
The Force PRO stated that the slain terrorists were involved in the killings in different parts of the State. These included killing of five police operatives in Umunna, Okigwe, on December 12, 2022, and burning of Arondizuogu Police Station on February 8, 2022.
He said, “The group was also involved in multiple kidnappings. Which included those of WAEC staff on June 5, 2023, four reverend sisters on August 21, 2022, and four Chinese nationals on December 6, 2023.”
Adejobi conveyed the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s commendation for the operatives’ gallantry and exceptional bravery.
He said, “The IGP charges police operatives across Commands and formations to sustain the tempo.”
He also urged them to “implement the Force’s action plan aimed at reducing crimes drastically in the first quarter of the year 2025.
“The Nigeria Police Force, NPF, remains unyielding in its goal towards ensuring national security and public safety,” Adejobi emphasized.
The Force spokesperson urged the public to remain vigilant and work collaboratively with the Nigeria Police to promote peace. He noted that the police are working to ensure a safer environment for all citizens.
source: NAN
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