Terrorism: Police Strike Major Blow to ESN, Neutralize Terrorist Kingpins, Destroy Camps in Imo
In a significant breakthrough in the fight against terrorism, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force attached to the Imo State Police Command have neutralized three high-profile terrorist kingpins linked to the proscribed Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The operation, which took place on January 24, 2025, was carried out by the Command’s tactical unit following credible intelligence on the whereabouts of the terrorists' hideouts. The police operatives stormed a forest in Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area (LGA), where they encountered heavy resistance from suspected IPOB/ESN members. Despite the attack, the operatives engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, demonstrating exceptional courage and tactical superiority.
The police neutralized six terrorists, including three identified kingpins: Ifeanyi Anayo a.k.a. Zuma De Rock (28), Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe a.k.a. Nmimi (22), and Kingsley Sunday (21), all natives of Ogube, Ihube in Okigwe LGA.
Recovered from the scene were five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), communication gadgets, and eight operational motorcycles used for their nefarious activities.
Investigations revealed that the neutralized terrorists were behind several high-profile crimes, including:
The April 5, 2021 attack on Owerri Correctional Center.
The killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe, on December 12, 2022.
The arson of Arondizuogu Police Station on February 8, 2022.
Several kidnappings, including WAEC staff on June 5, 2023, four reverend sisters on August 21, 2022, and four Chinese nationals on December 6, 2023.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, commended the operatives for their gallantry and professionalism, urging all police commands and formations to sustain the momentum in line with the Force’s 2025 action plan to combat crime and terrorism.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring national security and public safety. Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and collaborate with law enforcement agencies to foster a safer society.
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