- Three militants linked to IPOB’s Eastern Security Network (ESN) were killed, and five others arrested in a clash with police
- Confiscated items included firearms, ammunition, police warrant card, and identity card with Nnamdi Kanu’s image, implicating IPOB/ESN
During a recent clash with Ebonyi State Police Command, three militants affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) lost their lives. The skirmish resulted in the apprehension of five individuals associated with the group, seized alongside weaponry purportedly utilized in their operations.
Among the confiscated items were an AK47 rifle with 16 live rounds, a bag containing 2,000 live rounds, a police warrant card, and an identity card bearing Nnamdi Kanu’s image. Additionally, a portrait of an unidentified person, an Itel phone, and a motorcycle were recovered from the scene.
The deceased and detainees were reportedly linked to the militant faction of IPOB known as the Eastern Security Network (ESN). This group has been implicated in recent police fatalities within the state.
Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, Ebonyi State Police, in collaboration with sister security agencies, raided an IPOB/ESN hideout within Omini community. The confrontation ensued when the hoodlums engaged the operatives in gunfire. Three militants were neutralized, five arrested, while others managed to escape.
Recoveries from the hideout included three Sienna vehicles previously stolen for criminal activities. The recovered arsenal, including the AK47 rifle, further linked the gang to recent police attacks and fatalities in the region.
CP Augustina Ogbodo of Ebonyi State Command commended the officers for their valor and reassured residents of the relentless effort to combat crime and safeguard lives and properties in the state.
Over the past four months, reports indicate at least eight police officers have fallen victim to violence in the area.