Troops of the Nigerian Army have raided multiple hideouts of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), arresting key figures including Izuchukwu Emejuru (also known as Kingkong) and Chibuzor Chikwe (Onyema).
The raid, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies, took place in the Orlu Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State. During the operation, the troops confiscated weapons, including a semi-automatic pump-action gun, a locally made gun, and a pistol.
The Army made this known in a statement on X.
“Additionally, valuable items belonging to Eze Ogberuru, whose palace was earlier desecrated and burnt with his belongings carted away by ESN elements, were recovered by the troops.
“In another decisive operation, troops raided the hideout of a suspected IPOB/ESN kingpin identified as Chinemerem, aka “Bam Bam,” in Ezeinyen Okwe Umucheke, Onuimo LGA,” the Army said, noting his eventual arrest while attempting to reach for his weapons.
“A substantial amount of weapons, ammunition, and IPOB/ESN paraphernalia were seized, and the hideout was subsequently destroyed. Further demonstrating their resolve, troops intercepted suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists at a hideout in Amausa, Okigwe LGA.
“Overpowered in the ensuing shootout, the terrorists were forced to flee in disarray, abandoning a cache of ammunition and motorcycles.
“The troops recovered 72 rounds of 7.62 x 51mm (NATO) ammunition, four rounds of 7.62 mm (Special), 3 rounds of 5.56mm, one FN Rifle, a pair of military desert boots and one green beret,” The Army added.