A combined team of security agencies in Enugu State has neutralized at least 27 individuals suspected of being kidnappers and members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This operation comes as Governor Peter Mbah’s administration intensifies its crackdown on separatist groups and criminal elements in the state.
According to a statement from the governor’s media office on Wednesday, the suspects were killed in various operations across the state over the past two weeks, with some linked to the Simon Ekpa-led “Auto Pilot IPOB” faction based in Finland.
The operations, spearheaded by Superintendent Onochie Ezeh, were successful in rescuing kidnapped victims and dismantling several criminal hideouts. In one notable instance, a seven-man gang was neutralized at a poultry farm in Ogbeke Nike, which had been used to hide hostages.
Ezeh commended the joint security task force’s efforts and highlighted the importance of sustained action against these groups, noting that the team had eliminated several gangs and was continuing to target known criminal hotspots.
One of the rescued victims, Dr. Kate Pamela, described the horrific conditions during her kidnapping and called on the government to demolish properties used for criminal activities, including the poultry farm where she was held captive.
The Enugu State government, under Governor Mbah’s directive, is determined to rid the state of criminal threats, ensuring peace and security for its residents.
