Joint Troops dislodge suspected IPOB/ESN terrorist camp in Imo, recover arms and explosives
By: Zagazola Makama
Security forces comprising Army troops, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Police have dislodged a suspected Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN) terrorist hideout in Ezioha Ukwuorji, Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State.
Zagazola Makama learnt that the operation, which took place on Wednesday at about 5:20 p.m., involved coordinated efforts of the security agencies under “Operation End B44.”
On arrival at the camp, operatives engaged the suspected terrorists in a fierce gun battle. The criminals reportedly fled the scene, sustaining possible gunshot injuries, while the camp was successfully secured.
A subsequent search of the hideout led to the recovery of six pump-action guns, 176 rounds of live ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and locally made explosives.
Investigators also discovered several decomposed bodies, believed to be victims of previous attacks, and what appeared to be the remains of the late ESN commander, known as B44, who had reportedly died months ago. intelligence gathered at the camp showed evidence of serial kidnappings, attacks on security installations, and extrajudicial killings carried out by the group.
The operation is ongoing, with troops pursuing fleeing members of the outlawed group, aiming to recover additional arms and bring the perpetrators to justice.
