The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, a notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The suspect, popularly known as Gentle de Yahoo, was captured during a joint security operation in Imo State.
Troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, supported by other agencies, stormed his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area, and carried out the raid.
The operation did not only end with his arrest but also led to the seizure of dangerous weapons and items used in illegal activities.
According to an official Army statement, recovered weapons included an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and a cartridge.
Six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and a German flag were also seized during the raid.
Troops further discovered a workshop in the hideout where stolen vehicles were dismantled.
At the same location, ten motorcycles were destroyed to weaken the criminal network’s mobility.
The Nigerian Army highlighted that the operation in Imo was one of several coordinated security actions across the country in recent days.
In Adamawa State’s Madagali Local Government Area, five kidnap victims were rescued. Another five were freed in Katsina’s Malumfashi area, while two more regained freedom in Lokoja, Kogi State.
Security experts see these actions as part of the military’s broader plan to dismantle insurgent groups and reduce criminal activity across regions.
The Army also gave updates on its fight against terrorism in Borno State.
Troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai neutralised eight Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.
Several others were arrested after sustaining gunshot wounds during a fierce encounter.
According to the Army, the clash happened early Monday when insurgents attempted an ambush along the Garin Giwa axis of the Baga–Cross Kauwa Main Supply Route.
“During the exchange of fire, eight ISWAP fighters were neutralised, including two Munzirs and one Qaid,” the Army disclosed.
The military stressed that these operations show its determination to secure Nigeria, dismantle terrorist cells, and protect citizens from criminal groups.
For now, Gentle de Yahoo’s arrest marks a major victory for security forces, especially in the South-East where IPOB and ESN have long troubled communities with violence and intimidation.
