Troops of Sector 1 Exercise Golden Dawn III, in conjunction with other security agencies, following a credible intelligence report, on Wednesday, apprehended a commander of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), one Uchechukwu Akpa and three others, at their hideout at Christ the King Catholic Church, Ameta Mgbowo, in Awgu Local Council of Enugu State.

The arrest was made possible during a raid on their hideout, while holding a meeting to take over the leadership of IPOB/ESN Auto Pilot Command, Enugu State chapter, from apprehended former commander (Chocho). During the raid, Akpa sustained a gunshot wound, while trying to escape. Others arrested are Udoka Ude, Ikechukwu Ulanta, and Ezennaya Udeigewere.

Recall that Akpa was the second in command to Chocho, a notorious IPOB/ESN criminal, who earlier escaped to Benue State due to the intensity of own operations and was recently arrested. The arrested criminals are presently in custody.

In a follow up raid carried out at the early hours of yesterday at another hideout in Nenwe, Agwu Local Council of Enugu State, one AK 47 rifle, two AK 47 magazines, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO special ammunition and one pump action rifle were recovered.

The General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. HT Dada, appreciated the incredible cooperation of other security agencies for the success of the operation. He wished to enjoin the good people of the South East to support and continually provide timely, reliable and credible information that will lead to the arrest of more unscrupulous elements.

He noted that the Nigerian Army will continue to protect life and property of the good people of the region as it carries out its constitutional roles within the ambit of the law.