In a significant operation in Enugu State, the Police Command conducted a raid on suspected hideouts of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN) in the Akwuke axis of the Enugu metropolis.
The operation, carried out in the early hours of Saturday at around 2:30 a.m., faced resistance from the renegade elements, resulting in a fierce gun battle between the police operatives and the insurgents.
According to a statement by the Command’s Spokesperson, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, the police forces successfully overwhelmed the assailants, leading to the neutralization of two renegades.
However, other members of the outlawed group managed to escape, fleeing the scene with gunshot wounds sustained during the confrontation.
Following the raid, law enforcement authorities recovered a cache of weapons, including one AK-47 rifle, one Submachine Gun (SMG), and one stainless Pump-Action Gun (PAG), along with live and expended rounds of 7.62 mm calibre ammunition.
Additionally, five live cartridges and a small blue-colored Gideon New Testament Bible, suspected to be used for concealing charms, were confiscated.
DSP Ndukwe emphasized that the operation was part of the proactive crime prevention strategies devised by the state’s Commissioner of Police, Mr. Kanayo Uzuegbu.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the breech number of the recovered AK-47 had been wiped off, indicating potential tampering by the criminals.
The spokesperson commended the police operatives for their courage and efficiency in carrying out the raid, reaffirming the command’s commitment to eradicating unrepentant criminals from Enugu State.
Commissioner Uzuegbu urged continued support from the citizenry and called on individuals, especially owners of medical facilities, to report any persons presenting with gunshot wounds to the nearest police station for investigation.
The successful operation underscores the determination of law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security within the state, as they continue to confront criminal elements threatening the safety of residents and communities.
