Imo State Police Arrested Over 150 IPOB/ESN Members in the Last 8 Months – Imo PPRO

The Imo State Police Command has reported the arrest of more than 150 individuals associated with the Independent People of Biafra’s Eastern Security Network (ESN), also known as “unknown gunmen,” between January and August 2023. This move comes in response to the insurgency caused by the activities of these groups, which has resulted in mass migration from the Eastern region of Nigeria.

Residents from Imo and Anambra states, as well as those of South-Eastern origin who have relocated to the South-Western part of the country, have revealed the impact of the insurgency on their lives. The insurgency has led to decreased market activities, emboldened criminal elements, and an atmosphere of insecurity.

Police Public Relations Officer for the Imo State Command, Henry Okoye, emphasized that the Police Command has taken measures to improve security. These measures include enhanced patrol, feasibility policing, and stop-and-search directives given by the Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Barde.

Okoye stated, “Imo State is now safer than before. We have secured Owerri, we’re securing Orlu, and the only places we have a problem with now are along Oguta LGA and Okigwe. Some of these rogues used to come from neighboring states, unleash mayhem, and go back. But the governor, Hope Uzodinma, has given us his support.”

However, despite efforts to enhance security, the insurgency has taken a toll on daily life. Markets are less crowded, businesses are affected, and criminal activities such as armed robbery, rape, assassination, and banditry have increased. The unrest has led to a sense of insecurity among residents, prompting some to relocate to other regions considered safer.

Residents expressed concerns about their safety and the challenges posed by the activities of the unknown gunmen. They highlighted instances of violence, including attacks on a king’s palace, which have contributed to the overall sense of instability in the region. Many residents have moved to other states, such as Lagos and Ondo, to seek refuge from the turmoil.

As the Imo State Police Command intensifies efforts to arrest members of the IPOB/ESN groups, communities in Imo and Anambra states continue to grapple with the impact of the insurgency on their daily lives. The hope remains that government intervention and enhanced security measures will eventually restore stability to the affected regions.