The Nigerian Army recently announced the arrest of a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Commander of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), along with three others in Enugu State.
The operation was part of Sector 1 Exercise Golden Dawn III, conducted in collaboration with various security agencies.
According to a statement released on Thursday, the troops acted on credible intelligence and successfully arrested the suspected ESN Commander, Mr Uchechukwu Akpa, and three accomplices at their hideout, identified as Christ the King Catholic Church in Ameta Mgbowo, Awgu Local Government Area.
The arrest took place during a raid while the suspects were allegedly holding a meeting to assume leadership of the IPOB/ESN Auto Pilot Command in Enugu State.
This move was purportedly aimed at taking over from the former Commander, Chocho, who had been apprehended. The suspects were also allegedly planning attacks on the troops.
During the operation, Mr Uchechukwu Akpa sustained a gunshot wound while attempting to escape.
The other individuals arrested were Udoka Anthony Ude, Ikechukwu Ulanta, and Ezennaya Udeigewere. Additionally, four live cartridges were recovered.
The Army revealed that Mr Akpa held the position of Second in Command to Chocho, a notorious IPOB/ESN criminal who had previously evaded capture by relocating to Benue State but was recently arrested.
A subsequent raid in Nenwe, Agwu Local Government Area, led to the recovery of one AK-47 Rifle, two AK-47 Magazines, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO special ammunition, and one Pump-action rifle.
Major General HT Dada, the GOC 82 Division Nigerian Army, expressed appreciation for the cooperation of other security agencies in the successful operation.
He urged the people of the South East region to support the military by providing timely and credible information through the Emergency Line *193*.
The statement emphasized the Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the South East region within the confines of the law.
Wishing everyone a happy yuletide season, the Nigerian Army assured the public of its continued efforts in fulfilling constitutional responsibilities.
