Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Imo State Police Command have raided a camp said to belong to the Indigenous People of Biafra and its militant wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Nempi, Oru West Local Government Area of the state.
The command said its operatives also arrested 29 suspected members of the IPoB/ESN and recovered arms and ammunition from the camp.
A statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, ASP Henry Okoye and dated Sunday, October 20, 2024 disclosed this to newsmen in Owerri, the state capital.
ASP Okoye said the raiding of the camp and arrest of the suspects who comprise 25 males and four females followed the apprehension of a key suspect, Anukuru Nnanna Emmanuel, 25 years on September 15, 2024 at Mgbidi.
He added that Anukuru’s confession enabled the operatives to locate and dismantle the camp.
The PPRO listed weapons recovered during the raid to include four pump action guns, two locally made revolver, five locally made pistols, three AK-47 magazines, a Point of Sale (POS) machine, and 20 rounds of live cartridges.
Others were one white SUV and local bulletproof charms used by the criminal syndicate as well as N200,000 allegedly extorted by the suspects from victims.
The statement reads; “The Imo State Police Command Anti-Kidnapping Unit on 19/10/2024 dislodged a suspected IPOB/ESN terrorist camp in Nempi, Oru West Local Government Area of the State, leading to the arrest of 29 suspects-25 males and 4 females-allegedly linked to the proscribed group.
“This operation was initiated following the apprehension of a key suspect, Anukuru Nnana Emmanuel, ‘m’, 25yrs, on September 15, 2024 in Mgbidi. His vital confessions enabled police operatives to locate and dismantle the camp.
“During the operation, several dangerous items were recovered, including 4 pump action guns, 2 locally made revolver, five locally made pistols, three AK-47 magazines, a Point of Sale (POS) machine, and 20 rounds of live cartridges, one white SUV and local bulletproof charms used by the criminal syndicate. Additionally, over 200,000 naira, allegedly extorted from kidnapping victims, was recovered.
“These findings underscore the persistent threat posed by these groups in the State. Investigation is ongoing, efforts are in progress to apprehend the manufacturers of the locally made guns
“The dislodgment of this camp is part of the Command's ongoing efforts to combat violent crimes and restore peace within the State.
“The Imo State Police Command urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. We are dedicated to ensuring public safety and will continue to take decisive action against criminal elements in our state”.
