The Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Imo State Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, raided a notorious Eastern Security Network (ESN) and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) camp in Ezioha forest, Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State.
During the operation, several kidnap victims, including a 69-year-old traditional ruler from the Umuorji Mgbidi community in Oru West LGA, were rescued.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, confirming that the operation led to the neutralization of the gang leader responsible for terrorizing the state.
He said upon arrival at the camp, security operatives engaged the armed criminals in a gun battle, during which the leader was killed, while other members fled with gunshot wounds.
He stated that among the rescued victims were a couple, and several items were recovered, including multiple vehicles, a pump-action gun, ten live cartridges, four locally-made explosives, a Biafra flag, and a native bulletproof charm.
The police commended the joint efforts of the security forces and reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state.
