A high-stakes police operation in Imo State has left five suspected members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) dead, as law enforcement intensifies its crackdown on armed groups in the region.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), in collaboration with other security agencies, launched a targeted raid on an ESN camp, leading to the elimination of two key figures within the group. According to a statement on Sunday by Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi, officers recovered a significant cache of weapons, including seven AK-47 rifles, 13 pump-action guns, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Following intelligence leads, security operatives extended their operation to Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli LGA, bordering Ubachima Forest in Awomama Oru West LGA, on February 9, 2025. The operation led to another violent clash, during which three more ESN members were killed. Among the items recovered were two AK-47 rifles loaded with 36 rounds each, a pump-action gun, a cutlass, four motorcycles, and various criminal charms.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their bravery and reiterated the force’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks threatening national security. He urged citizens to support law enforcement by providing timely intelligence and reporting suspicious activities to authorities.
