The Imo State Police Command has announced that joint security operatives have neutralised several members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), while arresting others during ongoing operations in Mbaitoli and Njaba Local Government Areas of the state.
The disclosure was made in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Henry Okoye.
According to him, “The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, together with the Military Service Commanders and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Imo State, today, 17th September 2025, paid an operational visit to Joint Security Operatives comprising the Police, Military, Air Force, Navy, and DSS personnel engaged in special operations at Ezioha in Mbaitoli LGA, and Umuele, Ubuakpu, and Amakor in Njaba LGA.
“During the ongoing operations, identified IPOB/ESN terrorist camps within these areas were successfully dismantled. In the course of the encounter, several terrorists were neutralised, while some suspects were arrested for further investigation. Others escaped with bullet wounds. Exhibits recovered from the camps include a large cache of arms and ammunition. At the same time, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) were safely detonated by the Joint Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, alongside other incriminating items.”
Okoye explained that the high-powered visit was aimed at boosting the morale of operatives, assessing the progress of the mission, and reaffirming the joint resolve of security agencies to restore peace and security in Imo State.
Present during the visit were Commander 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, Brigadier General I. M. Abass; Air Commodore D. E. Bello, Commander Nigerian Air Force 211 Quick Response Group (QRG); Commander Oguta Naval Base, Commodore M. A. Abass; and Director of DSS, DD Uche Dunkwu. They joined CP Danjuma in commending the gallantry of the operatives, praising their professionalism, discipline, and resilience in combating terrorism and violent crime.
In their separate remarks, Brigadier General Abass, Air Commodore Bello, the Naval Commander, and the Director of DSS pledged sustained inter-agency collaboration and support for the operations.
They urged the security operatives to maintain vigilance, adhere strictly to rules of engagement, and remain focused until total peace is entrenched in the state.
The Imo State Police Command reassured residents that it remained fully committed, in synergy with other security agencies, to eliminating criminal elements and sustaining peace.
It urged residents of Mbaitoli, Njaba, and the entire state to go about their lawful activities without fear, as normalcy had been restored.
The statement also encouraged members of the public to support ongoing operations by providing credible information on suspicious activities via 0803 477 3600 and to report anyone seen with or treating gunshot injuries to the nearest police station without delay.
