…Kill 6 Leaders, Recover Weapons and Equipment
The Nigerian Police Force has made notable progress in the fight against terrorism. In Imo State, officers successfully neutralized six top members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this development in Abuja. He explained that the police recovered several items, including five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication gadgets, and eight operational motorcycles used by the group.
In a statement, Adejobi said:
“On January 24, 2025, officers from the command’s tactical unit carried out a well-coordinated operation. This followed credible intelligence that revealed the location of a terrorist hideout.
The operatives discovered the ESN base hidden in a forest in Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area. As the police advanced, they were met with heavy gunfire from suspected IPOB/ESN members. Despite the intense confrontation, the officers displayed remarkable bravery and engaged in a fierce gunfight.
“The operation led to the elimination of six members of the group, including three key leaders. These leaders were identified as Ifeanyi Anayo, also known as Zuma De Rock (28 years old), Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe, nicknamed Nmimi (22 years old), and Kingsley Sunday (21 years old). All three were natives of Ogube, Ihube, in Okigwe Local Government Area.
“In addition to the firearms and ammunition, officers recovered communication tools, IEDs, and eight motorcycles used for their operations.”
Adejobi further revealed that the group had been involved in several high-profile crimes. These include:
Attack on Owerri Correctional Center (April 5, 2021)
Killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe (December 12, 2022)
Burning of Arondizuogu Police Station (February 8, 2022)
The group was also linked to multiple kidnappings, such as:
Abduction of WAEC staff (June 5, 2023)
Kidnapping of four reverend sisters (August 21, 2022)
Abduction of four Chinese nationals (December 6, 2023)
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, praised the officers for their courage and coordination during the operation.
He stated:
“The IGP urges officers across the country to maintain the momentum and focus on reducing criminal activities significantly in the first quarter of 2025.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to national security and public safety. Citizens are encouraged to stay alert and collaborate with the police to promote peace and create a safer environment for everyone,” Adejobi added.
