The Imo State Police Command has reported a successful operation against suspected terrorists on Tuesday.

In a statement signed by spokesperson Henry Okoye, it was revealed that operatives from the command’s Counter-Terrorism Unit thwarted an attack by suspected IPOB/ESN members during a routine patrol along the Owerri/Aba Road, near Owerri Airport.

About ten attackers, travelling in two vehicles, launched a violent assault but were effectively countered by the police unit. In the ensuing gun battle, one suspect was killed, while the others fled with gunshot injuries, abandoning their operational vehicle, an ash-coloured Mercedes Jeep with Lagos State registration number AAA 101 GR.

The police confirmed that no casualties were reported among their ranks. Officers recovered an AK-47 rifle, 15 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, an IPOB/ESN flag, and the abandoned vehicle.

A search for the remaining suspects is currently ongoing in nearby bushes.

State Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma urged the public, particularly medical practitioners, to report any individuals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds to the nearest police station.

“The command remains committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and will continue to address any threats to public peace in the state,” the statement added.

In a separate incident, a 17-year-old student from Imo State University, Jesse Chidebere, was arrested for faking her abduction and death, causing significant distress to her family and the university community, according to the police spokesperson.