SECURITY FORCES DISMANTLE IPOB/ESN CAMPS IN IMO, RESTORE PEACE IN MBAITOLI, NJABA
By Kelechi Ugo
In a significant victory against insurgency in Imo State, joint security operatives have successfully dismantled several camps belonging to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a coordinated operation in parts of Mbaitoli and Njaba Local Government Areas.
The Imo State Commissioner
of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, led a high-powered delegation of top security commanders on an operational visit to the affected areas. Accompanying him were the Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General I.M. Abass; Air Commodore D.E. Bello of the Nigerian Air Force 211 Quick Response Group (QRG); Commander of the Oguta Naval Base, Commodore M.A. Abass; and the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), DD Uche Dunkwu (fsi).
The inspection covered areas of recent counter-insurgency operations, including Ezioha in Mbaitoli LGA, and Umuele, Ubuakpu, and Amakor communities in Njaba LGA—locations that were identified as strongholds of IPOB/ESN activities.
According to the Police, several terrorists were neutralized during intense confrontations, while others escaped with gunshot injuries. A number of suspects were also arrested for further investigation. Recovered items from the dismantled camps include a cache of arms and ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)—which were safely detonated by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team—as well as other incriminating materials.
The visit aimed to assess the progress of the operations, boost the morale of frontline operatives, and reaffirm the commitment of security agencies to restoring lasting peace in the state.
In their separate remarks, the service commanders lauded the professionalism, resilience, and discipline of the operatives. They pledged continued inter-agency collaboration and urged security personnel to remain vigilant, follow the rules of engagement, and sustain the current momentum until total peace is achieved.
The Imo State Police Command assured residents that normalcy has been restored to the affected communities and urged the public to go about their lawful activities without fear.
Citizens are also encouraged to support ongoing security efforts by reporting suspicious activities or individuals with gunshot wounds to the nearest police station. Useful information can be provided via the police emergency hotline: 0803 477 3600.
