The Nigeria Police Force has announced the dismantling of an alleged IPOB/ESN enclave in Nguru, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, leading to the recovery of heavy weapons, ammunition and surveillance equipment.
According to the police, the operation was carried out on April 23, 2026, by operatives of the Imo State Police Command as part of ongoing efforts to combat violent extremism and criminal activities across the country.
The police said the raid followed credible intelligence obtained from the confessional statement of a suspected senior IPOB/ESN commander identified as Ebube Uchenna Mmaduakolam, popularly known as “Ebube Virus.”
During the operation, three suspects were arrested and are currently in police custody. Investigators said the suspects are providing useful information regarding the group’s logistics network, operational structure and planned activities.
Items recovered from the hideout include two General-Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs), 3,115 rounds of GPMG ammunition, one AK-47 rifle, a pump-action shotgun, several surveillance drones and Biafra currency in different denominations.
The Inspector-General of Police reportedly commended the operatives for what he described as professionalism, courage and tactical efficiency during the operation.
Police authorities stated that the seizure of the weapons and ammunition has dealt a significant setback to the operational capacity of the alleged IPOB/ESN network in the South-East.
The Force also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of citizens across the country.
The statement was signed by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, on May 10, 2026.