The Police Command in Imo State successfully foiled an attack on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, Assistant Superintendent of Police Henry Okoye, disclosed in a statement on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, said the achievement was another significant operational success in the fight against violent crime by members of the group.
Mr Okoye said the latest attack was foiled when the hoodlums launched an assault on the command’s Counter Terrorism Unit during a routine patrol.
“On October 29, 2024, at approximately 6:30 pm, operatives from the Command’s Counter Terrorism Unit successfully repelled an attack by suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists during a routine patrol on the Owerri/Aba Road, near Owerri Airport.
“The attackers, numbering about ten in two vehicles, launched a violent assault but were effectively countered by the unit who demonstrated valour.
“In the ensuing gun battle, one suspect was neutralised, while the others fled with gunshot injuries, abandoning their operational vehicle—a Mercedes Jeep, ash in colour with Lagos State registration number AAA 101 GR,” Mr Okoye said.
He noted that fortunately, no member of the police team suffered any casualty or injuries.
He said that the operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle and fifteen rounds of 9.62mm live ammunition, IPOB/ESN flag and the abandoned vehicle.
The command’s spokesman said that intense combing of the nearby bushes was ongoing to apprehend the other fleeing suspects.
He appealed to the public, particularly medical practitioners to report anyone seen with or coming to treat gunshot injuries to the nearest police station.
Mr Okoye reiterated the command’s dedication to ensuring the safety of lives and properties of all citizens, promising that it would take necessary measures to address any threats to public peace in the state.
