In a significant security breakthrough, the Joint Security Task Force (JSTF) in Imo State has uncovered shallow graves in the Aku community, located in Okigwe Local Government Area. The graves are believed to have been used by members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) to bury their victims.
The discovery was made during a clearance operation conducted by Operation Udoka, a special security initiative aimed at tackling rising violence and criminal activities in the region. The shallow graves were reportedly located in a remote part of the community, which has been under the control of suspected IPOB leader Ifeanyi Okorienta, also known as ‘Gentle.’
This marks a grim chapter in the ongoing battle against IPOB insurgents and criminal elements in Imo State, which has seen escalating insecurity in recent years. The operation also led to the recovery of several stolen vehicles, arms, ammunition, and explosive devices, raising further alarm about the extent of criminal activities in the area.
A Shocking Discovery in the Heart of Imo State
The shallow graves found in Aku community are believed to be where IPOB and ESN members buried individuals who were allegedly targeted for their opposition to the group or for other suspected criminal activities. These discoveries have sent shockwaves through the local population, who have long lived in fear of the group’s activities.
Brigadier General Usman Lawal, Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade in Obinze, was present during the assessment tour of the area. He was accompanied by the State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, and Joseph Ogbonna, the Special Adviser to the Imo State Governor on Security. The security operatives expressed their commitment to ending the reign of terror and instability caused by IPOB and its armed wing, the ESN.
“The security forces in Imo State, in collaboration with the state government, are determined to put an end to the era of terror and insecurity that has been instigated by IPOB and ESN,” General Lawal stated.
A Community Under Siege
Aku community has become notorious in recent years for its links to criminal activities, particularly kidnappings, killings, and harassment allegedly carried out by suspected IPOB members. Situated along the border with Abia State, Aku has been a flashpoint for violence, with many locals living in constant fear of retaliation from the militant group.
Security forces have reported that the community has been controlled by the notorious IPOB leader Ifeanyi Okorienta, who allegedly orchestrated many of the attacks and criminal activities in the region. Okorienta, also known by his alias ‘Gentle,’ has been at the center of numerous investigations, with security operatives now focusing on dismantling his operations.
The discovery of the graves is seen as a turning point in the fight against IPOB and ESN’s activities in the area. According to local security officials, the raid marks the beginning of a concerted effort to regain control of areas under IPOB influence and restore peace and order.
Arrests and Security Measures
During the clearance operation, the task force was able to arrest approximately 20 individuals suspected of being involved in criminal activities associated with IPOB and ESN. These suspects are now in police detention, facing charges related to their roles in the unrest that has plagued the region.
The Imo State government has reiterated the importance of community collaboration with security agencies to maintain peace. The recent operations and arrests highlight the growing partnership between the state government and security forces in the ongoing fight against terror groups operating within the region.
Brig-Gen Usman Lawal called on the people of Aku and neighboring communities to work closely with the security operatives to ensure lasting peace and stability. “We need the full cooperation of the communities to sustain the peace and security in the area,” he said.
A New Hope for the People of Aku
The clearance operation in Aku is viewed as a crucial step toward restoring peace to the community, which has been suffering from years of lawlessness. Local residents have endured constant fear and disruption, with many lives lost and families torn apart by the violence attributed to IPOB and ESN’s actions.
With the holiday season approaching, security operatives hope that the recent raid will lead to a more peaceful atmosphere for the people of Aku. The discovery of the graves and the arrest of key suspects signal a shift toward reclaiming the area from the grip of insurgents.
“Finally, we can breathe a little easier,” said a local resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “The presence of IPOB and ESN has made life unbearable for us. We hope this operation will bring an end to the violence.”
The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the security forces can maintain the momentum and bring lasting peace to Aku and other parts of Imo State plagued by IPOB’s insurgency.
A Long Road Ahead
While the recent discoveries have brought hope to the people of Aku, the fight against IPOB and its affiliates is far from over. Security officials remain on high alert, continuing their efforts to dismantle the insurgency and restore order to Imo State.
Brig-Gen Lawal made it clear that the operation will not stop with Aku but will extend to other areas affected by IPOB activities. “Our operations will continue, and we will leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety of all Imo State residents,” he affirmed.
