By Prisca Nguzo
Joint security operatives in Imo State have killed several suspected dreaded members of Eastern Security Network, ESN, the armed wing of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, in the state.
This was as the operatives comprising the Police, Military, Air Force, Navy, and DSS personnel, in special operations raided the camp of the outlawed group situated at Ezioha in Mbaitoli LGA, and Umuele, Ubuakpu, and Amakor in Njaba LGA of the state.
In a release availed to newsmen on Wednesday, following the incident, the State Police Command spokesman, DSP Henry Okoye disclosed that during the operation, gun battle ensued, which also led to the arrest of some ESN members, while others escaped through the bush with bullet wounds and degrees of injuries.
He said, "during the ongoing operations, identified IPOB/ESN terrorist camps within these areas were successfully dismantled. In the course of the encounter, several terrorists were neutralized, while some suspects were arrested for further investigation. Others escaped with bullet wounds."
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Okoye disclosed that the exhibits recovered from the camps during the special operation include a large cache of arms and ammunition, while Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) were safely detonated by the Joint Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, alongside other incriminating items.
"The Imo State Police Command, in synergy with other security agencies, remains committed to eliminating criminal elements and sustaining peace. Residents of Mbaitoli, Njaba, and the entire State are urged to go about their lawful businesses without fear, as normalcy has been restored." he added.
The Imo Police Command spokesman also informed that the police Commissioner, Aboki Danjuma, in company of the Military Service Commanders and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Imo State, had yesterday paid an operational visit to personnel on the operation.
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According to him, "the high-powered visit was aimed at boosting the morale of the operatives, assessing the progress of the mission, and reaffirming the united resolve of security agencies to restore peace and security across the State."
Society Mirror gathered that present at the visit were the Commander 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, Brigadier General I. M. Abass; Air Commodore D. E. Bello, Commander Nigerian Air Force 211 Quick Response Group (QRG); the Commander Oguta Naval Base Commodore MA Abass ; and the Director DSS, DD Uche Dunkwu fsi.
"In their separate remarks, CP Danjuma, Brigadier General Abass, Air Commodore Bello, the Naval Commander, and the Director DSS assured of sustained inter-agency collaboration and support for the operations. They urged the operatives to maintain vigilance, adhere strictly to rules of engagement, and remain focused until total peace is entrenched in the State." the release partly reads.
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