Security Operation: Troops Neutralise ESN Camp in Okigwe, Foil Kidnapping Attempt in Owerri
In a joint operation involving the 82 Division Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Nigerian Police, and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, multiple camps of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), were successfully cleared along Umulolo – Umukele – Amousu and Agbobu in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
Encountering Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) en route, the troops decisively stormed and demolished terrorist hideouts. Signs of terrorist activities, occult practices, and acts of cannibalism were uncovered during the search. The troops also dismantled IED manufacturing facilities.
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Among the recovered items were rank badges of two kidnapped policemen from the Enugu-Port Harcourt road incident. Discoveries also included Biafran currencies, counterfeit US Dollar bills, Biafran Liberation Army T-shirts, military kit bags, cables for IED detonation, axes, and other Biafran insignia. Two suspects were apprehended, and the remains of burnt policemen were discovered for proper burial.
In a separate incident in Owerri Metropolis, troops on night patrol thwarted a kidnapping attempt by suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists. Engaging in a gun duel, the troops forced the criminals to abandon the victim.
Recovered items included an AK-47 rifle with a magazine, a G-3 rifle with mounted magazines, and the vehicle used by the terrorists.
To strengthen civil-military relations, Major General Hassan Taiwo Dada, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army, visited Isiuzo-Amufu community in Enugu State. Addressing the community, he emphasised the importance of cooperation to address insecurity, herders and farmers clashes, and youth restiveness.
The GOC also engaged with local security agencies, encouraging ongoing collaborative efforts for improved security in the South East region.
Major General Dada expressed appreciation for the cooperation of other security agencies and called on the people of the Southeast to provide timely, reliable, and credible information through the Emergency Line *193* by pressing 2.
The Nigerian Army remains committed to its constitutional roles within the law, protecting lives and property in the South East region.
Security Operation: Troops Neutralise ESN Camp in Okigwe, Foil Kidnapping Attempt in Owerri