The Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit has arrested 29 suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The raid took place on Saturday, targeting a camp in Nempi, Oru West Local Government Area.
The police spokesperson, ADP Henry Okoye, revealed that the arrests included 25 men and four women, following the confession of a key suspect, Anukuru Nnana Emmanuel, a 25-year-old apprehended earlier in Mgbidi. Emmanuel’s confession led officers to the camp, allowing them to dismantle the group’s operations.
During the raid, the police recovered a range of weapons and items used by the group, including four pump-action guns, two locally made revolvers, five pistols, three AK-47 magazines, and local bulletproof charms. A Point of Sale (POS) machine, 20 live cartridges, a white SUV, and over ₦200,000, reportedly extorted from kidnapping victims, were also seized.
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ADP Okoye highlighted that investigations are ongoing, and efforts are underway to locate the manufacturers of the locally produced firearms. He emphasized that this operation is part of the Imo State Police’s ongoing commitment to tackling violent crimes and ensuring public safety.
Citizens were urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement as the command continues its efforts to dismantle criminal operations in the state.