The Nigerian Army on Monday recovered arms and other dangerous weapons during its latest operation against insurgents of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement by Brigadier-General Onyema Nwachukwu, obtained by ANN the Army said troops of 82 Division conducting clearance operations along Anambra/Imo States border communities on Monday dislodged a criminal hideout used by IPOB and its armed affiliate; Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Orsumoghu, Ihiala Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State.
“The notorious groups have serially launched attacks on defenceless civilians and security targets from the hideout,” Army said.
“During the clearance operations along the border communities, troops were met with stiff resistance from the dissident elements, as they closed in on their enclave. They were overwhelmed by troops’ superior firepower, forcing them to abandon their hideout. After over running their camp, the gallant troops carried out further exploitation and recovered a cache of arms, comprising 22 Pump Action rifles, 19 Dane guns and 6 machetes. Other items recovered include assorted mobile phones, simcards, monitor and a laptop. One operational Hilux vehicle and various voodoo items and charms were also recovered.
“Investigations revealed that the hideout served as the operational base of one Innocent Obieke (aka Double Lion), who is said to be the head of the vigilante group in the area, but surreptitiously coordinates the criminal activities of IPOB/ESN in the area. The suspect is currently on the run, while troops have intensified operations to close in on him and his cohort.”
