Police Kill Five Suspected ESN Members in Imo, Recover Weapons

Police in Imo State have killed five suspected members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) during a tactical operation aimed at dismantling criminal networks in the region.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by Muyiwa Adejobi, spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the operation was conducted in collaboration with other security agencies and targeted an ESN camp. During the raid, security operatives neutralized two suspected ESN kingpins and recovered seven AK-47 rifles, thirteen pump-action guns, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

Adejobi stated that as part of a follow-up operation on February 9, security forces moved into the Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli Local Government Area (LGA), near the Ubachima Forest in Awomama Oru West LGA. The team intercepted a group of armed individuals who opened fire upon sighting the police. In the ensuing exchange, three additional suspected ESN kingpins were killed. Security operatives recovered two AK-47 rifles loaded with 36 rounds of live ammunition each, a pump-action gun, a cutlass, four motorcycles, and various charms believed to be used for criminal activities.

The police force emphasized that these operations demonstrate its commitment to maintaining law and order while ensuring the safety of citizens. Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun commended the officers involved for their bravery and reaffirmed the need for continuous vigilance in the fight against crime.

Egbetokun also highlighted the importance of intelligence gathering, community cooperation, and prompt reporting of suspicious activities to enhance public security.