Troops Arrest Notorious IPOB/ESN Suspects, Recover Weapons and Insignia in Ebonyi
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 2, Operation UDO KA, have arrested suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a series of coordinated raid operations in Ebonyi State.
Military sources said the latest arrest followed the earlier apprehension of a notorious kingpin, Mr. Chinedu Igautu, also known as “Calamity,” on April 21.
According to the sources, troops further arrested Mr. Chisom Agashi Ogadego, also known as “Baron,” on April 28, during which an AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 17 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were recovered.
The sources disclosed that at about 2:00 a.m. on May 26, troops conducted another raid on a suspected hideout of a wanted IPOB/ESN member, Mr. Chinedu Opete, also known as “Dragon,” at Ete Eyinmagwu village in Izzi Local Government Area.
They added that the suspect and one accomplice were apprehended during the operation.
Items recovered from the scene included a blue combat trouser, a military belt, two berets with IPOB/ESN insignia and a green turtle-neck top.
Preliminary intelligence indicated that the suspect had been on the security agencies’ wanted list prior to his arrest.
The sources said both suspects and recovered items are in military custody, while efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend other members of the criminal network still at large.
