Imo crackdown: Police neutralise suspects, uncover 300 IEDs

The Imo State Police Command says it has destroyed a camp linked to IPOB/ESN in an area known as “Mother Valley.” During the operation, two suspects were killed and more than 300 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were recovered.

The Commissioner of Police, Audu Bosso, spoke about the operation on Wednesday at the police headquarters in Owerri. He said the raid was carried out with the support of the military and other security agencies in Orsu Local Government Area between February and March.

According to him, the suspects opened fire on the security team, but were overpowered. The police recovered explosives, gas cylinders, pipes, and five vehicles from the camp.

Bosso also said that 75 people were arrested for crimes such as kidnapping and murder. Weapons recovered include AK-47 rifles, ammunition, magazines, locally made pistols, a Beretta pistol, and six stolen motorcycles.

He added that on March 3, police stopped an attack by suspected IPOB/ESN members on ADAPALM, a government facility in Ohaji/Egbema. The attackers burned heavy equipment, but one of them was killed while others escaped with injuries.

On March 14, the suspects attacked again during a police patrol but were forced to flee, leaving behind three AK-47 rifles and magazines loaded with ammunition.

The police commissioner said crime has reduced in the state and assured residents of tight security, especially during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration. He also advised people to follow traffic rules and share useful information with the police to help keep the state safe.