The Imo State Police Command successfully dislodged a suspected terrorist camp believed to be operated by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and their paramilitary wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The camp, located in Nempi, Oru West Local Government Area, was raided by the police, resulting in the arrest of 29 individuals, including 25 males and 4 females. The operation is part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement to tackle violent crime in the state.
The police operation, which was led by the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, was initiated after the apprehension of a key suspect, Anukuru Nnana Emmanuel, a 25-year-old male, last week in Mgbidi.
The suspect’s arrest was pivotal in the success of the raid, as his detailed confession helped police operatives uncover and locate the terrorist hideout.
Emmanuel provided critical information that enabled the police to launch a precise operation, dismantling the camp and neutralizing the criminal activities there.
In a press release issued on Sunday, Henry Okoye, the Public Relations Officer for the Imo State Police Command, highlighted the importance of the operation in improving security within the state.
He explained, “This operation was initiated following the apprehension of a key suspect, Anukuru Nnana Emmanuel, ‘m’, 25yrs, last week in Mgbidi. His vital confessions enabled police operatives to locate and dismantle the camp.”
The police recovered a cache of dangerous weapons and other items during the raid.
These included four pump-action guns, two locally-made revolvers, five pistols, three AK-47 magazines, and 20 rounds of live cartridges. The police also seized a Point of Sale (POS) machine and over ₦200,000 in cash, which the suspects had allegedly extorted from kidnapping victims.
Additionally, a white SUV, believed to be used for criminal operations, was confiscated along with locally-made bulletproof charms, often used by the group to protect themselves from attacks.
