Nigerian troops in collaboration with other sister security agencies have carried out a successful raids on multiple camps of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its militia wing, the Eastern Security Network in Orlu local government area of Imo State.
Leaders of the proscribed group, including Izuchukwu Emejuru (alias Kingkong) and Chibuzor Chikwe (alias Onyema), were arrested during the operations.
The raids resulted in the seizure of several weapons, including a semi-automatic pump-action gun, a locally made gun, and a pistol.
According to a statement by the Defense Headquarters, valuable items belonging to Eze Ogberuru, whose palace was previously attacked by the criminal elements, were recovered by the troops.
Also, in a separate operation, troops raided the hideout of another suspected ESN kingpin, Chinemerem (alias Bam Bam), in Ezeinyen Okwe Umucheke, Onuimo LGA.
Chinemerem was apprehended while attempting to reach for his weapons. The operation led to the seizure of a substantial amount of weapons, ammunition, and IPOB/ESN paraphernalia, and the hideout was subsequently destroyed.
In another engagement, troops intercepted suspected ESN terrorists at a hideout in Amausa, Okigwe LGA. Following a shootout, the terrorists were forced to flee, abandoning a cache of ammunition and motorcycles.
Recovered items included 72 rounds of 7.62 x 51mm (NATO) ammunition, four rounds of 7.62mm (Special), three rounds of 5.56mm, one FN Rifle, a pair of military desert boots, and one green beret.
In a related development, troops tracked and arrested a suspected terrorist, Ibrahim Abdullahi, in Edu LGA of Kwara State. The operation led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, magazines, and ammunition.
However, the Army stressed that these operations underscore the synergy and commitment of the security forces in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by terrorist groups and criminal elements.