Korede Abdullah in Lagos
In a significant milestone in the fight against terrorism, the Nigeria Police Force has neutralized three deadly terrorist kingpins associated with the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Imo State.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi in a statement on Saturday, “the operation resulted in the neutralization of 6 members of the terrorist group, with 3 being ESN kingpins”.
The kingpins were identified as Ifeanyi Anayo a.k.a. Zuma De Rock (28), Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe a.k.a. Nmimi (22), and Kingsley Sunday (21).
The police operatives recovered five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), several communication equipment, and eight operational motorcycles used by the group.
Prior investigations had revealed the involvement of the group in several high-profile crimes, including the attack on the Owerri Correctional Center on April 5, 2021, and the killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe, on December 12, 2022.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the gallant operatives for their exceptional display of bravery and coordination.
He charged police operatives across commands and formations to sustain the tempo and implement the Force’s action plan aimed at reducing crimes drastically in the first quarter of 2025.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains unyielding in its goal towards ensuring national security and public safety,” IGP Egbetokun emphasized.
The police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and work collaboratively with the Nigeria Police Force to promote peace and ensure a safer environment for all citizens.
The operation is seen as a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism in the region, and the police have assured that they will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.
