Police arrest ‘29 ESN members’, recover weapons in Imo

The Imo state police command says its operatives have arrested 29 suspected members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the paramilitary arm of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a statement on Sunday, Henry Okoye, spokesperson of the command, said the arrest was carried out after Anukuru Nnana Emmanuel, a suspected ESN kingpin, was nabbed on September 15.

Okoye said the police team also dislodged the ESN’s camp at Nempi in the Oru-west LGA of the state and recovered “dangerous items”.

He said the suspects comprise 25 males and four females.

“During the operation, several dangerous items were recovered, including four pump action guns, two locally made revolvers, five locally made pistols, three AK-47 magazines, a Point of Sale (POS) machine, and 20 rounds of live cartridges, one white SUV, and local bulletproof charms used by the criminal syndicate,” the statement reads.

“Additionally, over N200,000, allegedly extorted from kidnapping victims, was recovered. These findings underscore the persistent threat posed by these groups in the state.

“Investigation is ongoing as efforts are in progress to apprehend the manufacturers of the locally made guns.

“The dislodgement of their camp is part of the command’s ongoing efforts to combat violent crimes and restore peace within the state.

“The Imo state police command urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

“We are dedicated to ensuring public safety and will continue to take decisive action against criminal elements in our state.”