Troops of the Nigerian Army have raided multiple hideouts of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) where kingpins including Izuchukwu Emejuru (also known as Kingkong) and Chibuzor Chikwe (Onyema) were arrested.
The troops in collaboration with either security agencies conducted the raid in Orlu Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo state where the kingpins were arrested and their weapons including semi-automatic pump-action gun, a locally made gun, and a pistol, confiscated.
“Additionally, valuable items belonging to Eze Ogberuru, whose palace was earlier desecrated and burnt with his belongings carted away by ESN elements, were recovered by the troops.
“In another decisive operation, troops raided the hideout of a suspected IPOB/ESN kingpin identified as Chinemerem, aka “Bam Bam,” in Ezeinyen Okwe Umucheke, Onuimo LGA,” the Army said, noting his eventual arrest while attempting to reach for his weapons.
“A substantial amount of weapons, ammunition, and IPOB/ESN paraphernalia were seized, and the hideout was subsequently destroyed. Further demonstrating their resolve, troops intercepted suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists at a hideout in Amausa, Okigwe LGA.
“Overpowered in the ensuing shootout, the terrorists were forced to flee in disarray, abandoning a cache of ammunition and motorcycles.
“The troops recovered 72 rounds of 7.62 x 51mm (NATO) ammunition, four rounds of 7.62 mm (Special), 3 rounds of 5.56mm, one FN Rifle, a pair of military desert boots and one green beret,” The Army added.
In a related development, troops had tracked and arrested a suspected terrorist, identified as Ibrahim Abdullahi, in Edu LGA of Kwara State. The operation led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, magazines, and ammunition.
The Army noted that the operations underscore the synergy and commitment of the security forces in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by terrorist groups and criminal elements.