In a bold operation to tackle insecurity, police operatives in Imo State have neutralised six members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). Among those killed were three suspected kingpins, all wanted for their roles in high-profile crimes across the region.
The Imo State Police Command conducted the raid on January 24, 2025, following credible intelligence on the location of a terrorist hideout. According to the Force Headquarters, the operation targeted a camp in Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area.
Fierce Gun Battle in the Forest
Upon arriving at the camp, the police team encountered heavy gunfire from the suspects. Demonstrating what the authorities described as “exceptional courage,” the officers engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange of fire.
Six members of the group were killed, including three notorious kingpins: 28-year-old Ifeanyi Anayo, also known as Zuma De Rock; 22-year-old Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe, known as Nmimi; and 21-year-old Kingsley Sunday. All three hailed from Ogube in Okigwe LGA.
Weapons and Evidence Recovered
During the operation, the police recovered an arsenal of weapons and operational tools. Items found at the scene included five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), several communication gadgets, and eight operational motorcycles believed to be used for swift attacks.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the officers for their bravery and meticulous execution of the raid. He urged other commands to maintain a similar approach to combatting terrorism and other crimes in 2025.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains unyielding in its commitment to ensuring national security and public safety,” Egbetokun said.
A History of Violence
The suspects were linked to several high-profile crimes in the Southeast region, as revealed by prior investigations. Among the group’s alleged activities were the following:
- The April 5, 2021, attack on the Owerri Correctional Center.
- The killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe, on December 12, 2022.
- The burning of the Arondizuogu Police Station on February 8, 2022.
- Multiple kidnappings, including the abduction of West African Examinations Council (WAEC) staff on June 5, 2023, four reverend sisters on August 21, 2022, and four Chinese nationals on December 6, 2023.
The police described the group as a “criminal network causing havoc in the region,” adding that the latest operation was part of an intensified effort to dismantle such networks and bring lasting peace to the Southeast.
Community Impact and Public Reaction
The raid has drawn mixed reactions from residents of the region. While some praised the police for their efforts to restore security, others expressed concerns about the recurring violence and the potential for retaliation by remaining members of the proscribed group.
A community leader from Okigwe, who wished to remain anonymous, called for caution and dialogue to address the underlying causes of insecurity in the region.
“While we commend the police for their actions, it is important to address the grievances that give rise to such groups,” he said.
A Renewed Call for Collaboration
The police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. According to the statement from the Force Headquarters, collaboration between law enforcement agencies and citizens is crucial to ensuring a safer Nigeria.
“Members of the public are encouraged to work with the police by providing timely information. Together, we can promote peace and create a safer environment for all citizens,” the statement read.
Looking Ahead
The Inspector-General has emphasised the importance of sustaining the momentum in the fight against crime. He highlighted a renewed action plan aimed at reducing insecurity nationwide in the first quarter of 2025.
As the security forces continue their operations, the success of these efforts will depend not only on the bravery of the police but also on addressing the social and economic conditions that foster crime.
The government’s handling of these issues will be critical in ensuring lasting peace in the region. The Imo State raid is a reminder of the complex challenges Nigeria faces in tackling insecurity, balancing law enforcement with efforts to address root causes.
