Security forces neutralize five ESN members in Imo

Combined security forces have successfully killed five suspected members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in separate operations in Imo State, located in Nigeria’s southeast.

The ESN, an armed faction of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been involved in violent activities aiming to secede parts of the southeast and south-south regions from Nigeria.

According to Muyiwa Adejobi, the police spokesperson, the operations took place on February 8 and 9, resulting in the death of five ESN operatives.

The first operation occurred on February 8 when security forces raided a criminal camp situated between Ezioha in Mbaitolu and Umuele in Umuaka, both in Imo.

Two top ESN members were killed in the raid. The operation was conducted by the Nigeria Police Force alongside other unidentified security agencies.

The operation leads to the destruction of several camps and the recovery of several weapons, including seven AK-47 rifles, 13 pump-action guns, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

On February 9, security operatives tracked another group of suspected militants in the Nkwukwo Forest, located near Ubachima in Awomama.

As the operatives approached, the suspects opened fire, prompting an exchange that resulted in the death of three additional ESN leaders.

Among the items seized were two AK-47 rifles, a pump-action gun, a cutlass, four motorcycles, and criminal charms.

In a separate incident in Kebbi State, police forces engaged a group of kidnappers who had abducted a 60-year-old man in Gobiraje village.

After tracking the suspects to Tundafari Forest, a shootout ensued, leading to the death of four kidnappers and the arrest of one.

The kidnapped victim was rescued unharmed, and N3 million, which had been paid as ransom, was recovered.

Mr Adejobi emphasized that these successful operations highlight the commitment of the police to dismantling criminal networks threatening public safety.

Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun praised the officers involved and reiterated the importance of continuous vigilance and community cooperation in the fight against crime.

He assured Nigerians of the police’s ongoing efforts to ensure a safer and more secure environment across the country.