Police operatives dismantled a suspected IPOB/ESN camp in Imo, recovering heavy weapons, drones and ammunition during a major security raid.
The Nigeria Police Force has intensified its crackdown on violent criminal networks in the South-East following the successful dismantling of a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout in Imo State.
The latest operation, which took place in Nguru community, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, led to the recovery of dangerous weapons, surveillance equipment and the arrest of several suspects believed to be linked to separatist activities in the region.
According to police authorities, the operation was carried out by operatives of the Imo State Police Command as part of ongoing efforts to combat violent extremism and restore public safety in troubled communities.
The raid, which was described as intelligence-driven, followed information obtained during the interrogation of a suspected senior commander of the IPOB/ESN network identified as Ebube Uchenna Mmaduakolam, popularly known as “Ebube Virus.”
Security officials disclosed that intelligence gathered from the suspect provided investigators with critical details about the location of the camp and the activities allegedly being coordinated from the area.
Acting on the information, operatives launched a coordinated operation on April 23, 2026, leading to the discovery of the suspected enclave.
During the operation, police recovered two General-Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs), over 3,000 rounds of ammunition, one AK-47 rifle and a pump-action shotgun.
Operatives also discovered surveillance drones believed to have been used for monitoring movements around the area.
In addition, security agents reportedly recovered locally produced Biafra currency in different denominations.
Authorities said the discovery of the weapons and equipment highlights the growing sophistication of criminal elements operating under the IPOB/ESN structure.
The police noted that the recovered drones and heavy ammunition indicate that the group had built a dangerous operational network capable of carrying out coordinated attacks.
Three suspects were arrested during the raid and are currently assisting investigators with further information.
According to the police, the suspects are providing useful intelligence concerning the group’s recruitment pattern, logistics operations and movement of arms within parts of the South-East.
The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, confirmed the development in a statement released on Sunday.
He explained that the success of the operation was made possible through careful intelligence gathering and tactical execution by officers involved in the mission.
Placid praised the operatives for displaying professionalism, bravery and discipline throughout the operation.
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He also revealed that the Inspector-General of Police commended the officers for what he described as a major breakthrough against violent criminal groups threatening national security.
The police spokesperson stated that the recovery of the weapons has significantly reduced the operational strength of the IPOB/ESN network in the region.
According to him, removing such a large cache of arms from circulation would help prevent future attacks and reduce security threats against innocent civilians and law enforcement personnel.
Over the years, several states in the South-East have witnessed attacks on security formations, government facilities and public infrastructure.
Authorities have repeatedly blamed criminal groups operating under the IPOB/ESN network for many of the incidents, although the separatist group has denied involvement in some attacks.
Security experts believe the latest operation may strengthen ongoing efforts to improve stability in the region.
Analysts say intelligence-led operations are becoming increasingly important in the fight against organized criminal networks because they help security agencies identify hideouts, funding channels and operational structures before attacks are carried out.
Residents of communities affected by insecurity have continued to call on security agencies to sustain operations aimed at restoring peace and rebuilding public confidence.
Many locals also urged authorities to combine security enforcement with community engagement and intelligence sharing to prevent criminal groups from re-establishing their presence.
The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order across the country.
Authorities assured residents that security operations targeting violent groups and illegal arms networks would continue in different parts of Nigeria.
The latest IPOB/ESN operation in Imo State is expected to further increase security surveillance across the South-East as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to dismantle criminal hideouts and disrupt illegal activities threatening regional peace and national stability.
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