The Imo State Police Command has neutralized three key figures of the Eastern Security Network and dismantled their operational camps in a forest at Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area.
According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi the operation, carried out on January 24, 2025, was prompted by credible intelligence.
The statement added that the tactical police units advanced on the hideout but encountered heavy gunfire from suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, ESN. The police responded decisively, engaging the attackers in a fierce exchange.
“Six terrorists were neutralized during the operation, including three identified kingpins: Ifeanyi Anayo, also known as Zuma De Rock (28), Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe, alias Nmimi (22), and Kingsley Sunday (21),” said ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer.
“These individuals have been linked to multiple high-profile crimes, including attacks on police facilities and kidnappings.”
Recovered items include five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, improvised explosive devices, communication gadgets, and eight motorcycles reportedly used in their operations.
The police have connected the group to several criminal incidents, including the 2021 attack on the Owerri Correctional Center, the killing of five officers in Umunna, Okigwe, in 2022, and the burning of Arondizuogu Police Station the same year.
The gang was also implicated in multiple abductions, such as the kidnapping of WAEC officials, reverend sisters, and Chinese nationals between 2022 and 2023.
Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the officers for their bravery and urged police formations nationwide to sustain similar efforts.
“This operation demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguarding lives and property. We must maintain this momentum to drastically reduce crime in the first quarter of 2025,” the IGP stated.
The police called on the public to remain vigilant and support their efforts to create a safer society.
“We urge all citizens to collaborate with law enforcement agencies by providing timely information that can help combat terrorism and other criminal activities,” Adejobi added.
