Police Neutralise ESN Kingpins, Destroy Deadly Camps In Imo
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force attached to the Imo State Command in a decisive victory against terrorism, have dismantled a key stronghold of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Okigwe Local Government Area.
The operation, carried out on January 24, 2025, led to the neutralisation of six terrorists, including three notorious kingpins: Ifeanyi Anayo a.k.a. Zuma De Rock, Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe a.k.a. Nmimi, and Kingsley Sunday.
Acting on credible intelligence, the tactical unit stormed a forest in Ihube, Okigwe, where the terrorists opened fire.
Undeterred, the operatives engaged them in a fierce gun battle, recovering five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, explosives, communication equipment, and eight operational motorcycles.
The suspects were linked to several high-profile crimes, including the 2021 Owerri Correctional Center attack, the murder of five policemen in December 2022, and multiple kidnappings, including WAEC officials and Chinese nationals.
Reacting, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the operatives for their bravery and urged sustained efforts to combat crime nationwide.
He called on the citizenry to support the police in maintaining peace and safety across the country.
The operation underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to tackling terrorism and safeguarding public safety.
