Police Raid Two IPOB/ESN Camps, Kill Notorious Leaders

The operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have dismantled two terrorist camps operated by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Imo State.

According to a statement released on Sunday by Police Force spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the operations, which took place on 8th and 9th February 2025, led to the neutralisation of five terrorist kingpins and the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition.

The first raid was carried out at an IPOB/ESN hideout in Ezioha Mbaitolu within Umuele Umuaka, Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State. According to police sources, the operation, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies, resulted in the killing of two key leaders of the separatist group.

Security operatives also recovered seven AK-47 rifles, 13 pump-action guns, and hundreds of rounds of live ammunition.

The notorious stronghold, which had been a base for launching deadly attacks on innocent civilians and security personnel, was completely dislodged.

Following intelligence reports, the operatives proceeded the next day to Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli LGA, close to the Ubachima Forest boundary in Awomama, Oru West LGA.

Upon sighting the security team, the armed militants opened fire, prompting a fierce gun duel. The police overpowered the insurgents, neutralising three more commanders of the terror group.

In the aftermath of the battle, security forces recovered two AK-47 rifles, each loaded with 36 rounds of live ammunition, a pump-action gun, a cutlass, four motorcycles, and an assortment of criminal charms.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, commended the officers involved in the operation, stating that the Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to dismantling criminal networks and safeguarding law-abiding citizens.

He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and support law enforcement efforts to rid the country of violent crime and insurgency.

The Force Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to sustained intelligence-driven operations, community engagement, and collaboration with other security agencies to restore peace and stability across the country.