BY EMMANUEL CHUKWUMA, ENUGU.
Security forces in a combined operation have Neutralized four suspected IPOB/ ESN terrorists and arrested five others in a protracted gun battle in Imo State.
This was made known through a statement issued by the police public relations officer, (PPRO), Henry Okoye and made available for the newsmen.
According to him, the operation, which also covered Njaba and other affected areas, highlighted the state’s commitment to safeguarding all its communities.
He said, “During this operation, security forces successfully neutralized four suspected terrorists and arrested five others following a protracted gunfight with the terrorists. In addition, eight motorcycles, several dangerous weapons including explosive devices, and communication equipment linked to IPOB/ESN members were recovered.
He revealed that in a continued effort to improve security and combat insurgency, security agencies in Imo State, including the Police, Armed Forces, DSS, and NSCDC, under the auspices of Operation Udoka, “have strengthened their operations to dismantle criminal networks operating within the State. On December 14, 2024, the Commissioner of Police and other service commanders conducted an assessment of an ongoing operation in Ezioha, Eziama Autonomous Community, in Mbaitoli LGA, targeting an ESN camp responsible for violent attacks and kidnappings in the region.”
“The assessment involved key security figures, including the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, Brigadier General U.A. Lawal, Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, Air Commodore David Bello, Commander NAF 211 Quick Response Group, Owerri, Naval Commander Oguta, Commodore MB Salisu, the DSS Commander, the NSCDC Commander, and the SSA to the Governor on Security Affairs, Brig. Gen. Joseph Ogbonna (Rtd.). “
They commended the professionalism of the joint security operatives and stressed the importance of public cooperation in aiding the fight against crime by providing valuable intelligence.
The PPRO stressed that this operation followed the dismantling of another ESN camp in Aku earlier this month.
Brig. Gen. Joseph Ogbonna (Rtd.), assured the public that security agencies are fully committed to ensuring their safety, especially as the holiday season approaches. He called on residents to stay alert and continue cooperating with security forces to help maintain peace.
CP Aboki Danjuma reassured the people of Imo State that the security agencies are working tirelessly to protect the state.
He called on all citizens to work in partnership with law enforcement to ensure a peaceful and secure environment throughout the holiday season.
