Task-force neutralises four suspected terrorists in Imo

Recovers Church taken over by alleged IPOB/ESN members

A Joint Security Task force in Imo State code-named Operation Udoka has neutralised four suspected terrorists and arrested five others during an ongoing operation in the community.

The operation, according to report, is targeted at dismantling the camps of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its security outfit, Eastern Security Network (ESN), “responsible for violent attacks and kidnappings in the state.”

They also dislodged alleged IPOB/ESN members from the St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Eziama Obiato, Mbaitoli Council of the State which The Guardian gathered has been used by the hoodlums led by one Monday Oluchukwu Ogu, popularly known as B44, as their camp.

The security task force which included the Police, Armed Forces, DSS, and NSCDC said that the hoodlums take off from the church to launch their criminal activities in the community and the state at large.

Briefing newsmen during their assessment visit to Eziama Community which has been under siege by the B44 men, Bridg. Gen. Usman Lawal, Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze; CP Aboki Danjuma, Police Commissioner, Bridg. Gen. Joseph Ogbonna, (Rtd), Special Assistant to the Imo State Government on Security Affairs expressed satisfaction with the level of achievements recorded in the operation.

The security chiefs said Eziama Community, which has been deserted over time, is one of strongholds of the criminal elements in the state, with Biafra flags and symbols mounted and painted at strategic places of the area.

They disclosed that aside from several arrests made, arms and ammunition were recovered while many explosive devices planted by the hoodlums to forestall the operation were identified and detonated.

They reiterated the commitment of the state government led by Hope Uzodimma and the security agencies in the state to restore peace and stability in the state, while soliciting public support towards achieving adequate security in the state.

Danjuma, Ogbonna and others also appealed to indigenes of the community and others from the other deserted communities in the state to return home, assuring them of adequate security and protection.

The CP also used the opportunity to reassure citizens of the Command’s commitment, collaborating with sister security agencies, to guarantee security during the yuletide celebrations.

“During this operation, security forces successfully neutralised four suspected terrorists and arrested five others following a protracted gunfight with the terrorists.

“In addition, eight motorcycles, several dangerous weapons including explosive devices, and communication equipment linked to IPOB/ESN members were recovered,” he said.