- Emmanuel’s confession reportedly led police operatives to the camp, which was swiftly disbanded
The Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit has dismantled a suspected camp of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Nempi, Oru West Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of 29 individuals linked to the group.
In a statement on Sunday, Police Public Relations Officer Henry Okoye revealed that the operation followed the arrest of a key suspect, 25-year-old Anukuru Nnana Emmanuel, in Mgbidi last week.
Emmanuel’s confession reportedly led police operatives to the camp, which was swiftly disbanded.
Recovered from the site were a range of weapons and items, including four pump-action guns, two locally-made revolvers, five pistols, three AK-47 magazines, a Point of Sale machine, and 20 rounds of live ammunition. The police also seized a white SUV, local bulletproof charms, and over N200,000 allegedly extorted from kidnapping victims.
Okoye emphasized that investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway to arrest the manufacturers of the locally-made firearms. “The dislodgment of this camp is part of the command’s ongoing efforts to combat violent crimes and restore peace within the state,” he added.
The Imo State Police Command has urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as part of efforts to ensure public safety.