The Police in Imo State have raided the hideout of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the eastern Security Network (ESN) in Okigwe, arresting three suspects.
The state police command said the move was to sustain its operational momentum against criminal elements threatening public safety in the state.
A statement by the police public relations officer in the state, Henry Okoye, said some weapons were also recovered.
He said, “On April 17, 2025, at about 0120hrs, operatives of the Command’s Tactical Teams, in synergy with local vigilante groups, acted on credible intelligence and stormed a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout on Cameroon Street, Ubahu, in Okigwe LGA.
“On sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire, resulting in a gun battle during which three suspects were arrested, namely: Onyekaba Ikenna Innocent (21), Ugwu Ikenna (31) and Ofor Kasarachi (37), while two others escaped into the surrounding bushes.
“Recovered from the scene were one AK-47 riffle, two pump-action guns, 18 live cartridges, mobile devices, laptops and ₦10.3 million in cash. Investigations reveal that the money was contributed by IPOB members to finance terrorism.”
The command assured Imo residents of robust security across the state during and after the Easter celebrations.
The Police maintained that, in collaboration with sister agencies, patrols, surveillance and checkpoints have been intensified to ensure a safe and peaceful celebration.
