Soldiers arrest suspected IPOB leader over killing of Delta police officer

Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) over the killing of a police officer in Delta State.

Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations for 82 Division Nigerian Army said the IPOB and Eastern Security Network (ESN) kingpin popularly known as ‘Calamity’ was arrested during a raid on the terrorists’ hideout in Nwofe, Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Calamity was arrested alongside four others by troops of Sector 2, Operation UDO KA during the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY in the early hours of today, Tuesday, April 21.

According to Ayeni, the operation was conducted by the troops following credible intelligence that linked the suspect and his accomplice to the killing of a police officer.

He added that another individual was also injured by the suspected criminals during an attack at Okuku-Igbo in Oshimili North LGA, Delta State on February 26.

Ayeni stated that during the said attack, the suspects carted away two AK-47 rifles.

“In an attempt to evade arrest after intensified security operations in Delta State, “Calamity” and his men relocated to Ebonyi State to look for a haven and established a new criminal camp to continue their violent activities.

“Acting on actionable intelligence, troops stormed the hideout and apprehended five suspects, including the commander (Calamity) and 4 other suspects who are also key members of  IPOB/ESN.

“At the time of arrest, “Calamity” was found in possession of a black handbag containing five mobile phones and numerous keys,” Ayeni said.

He mentioned other items recovered from the suspects include a black Kcsanya motorcycle.

The suspects, he said, are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation to dismantle the wider network of criminal collaborators and recover other weapons hidden by the group.

“This successful operation underscores the determination of the Nigerian Armed Forces in collaboration with other security agencies to neutralise terrorist threats, restore peace, and protect law-abiding citizens across the region.

“The military reiterates its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and calls on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely information that will aid ongoing operations,” Ayeni noted.