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Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in a joint operation with other security agencies, have successfully broken into the Ezioha terror camp in Mbaitoli LGA, where they neutralized five gunmen and recovered a cache of weapons during a tactical operation targeting terrorist camps in Imo State.
The operation, which took place on February 8 and 9, 2025, dealt a significant blow to the activities of hoodlums and claimants to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in the area.
On February 8, 2025, security forces stormed the terrorist camp located in Ezioha Mbaitoli, neighbouring Umuele Umuaka community in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State. The operation resulted in the neutralization of two criminal kingpins and the recovery of seven AK-47 rifles, 13 pump-action guns, and hundreds of assorted live ammunition. The camp was successfully dislodged and destroyed.
In a follow-up operation on February 9, 2025, the security team moved to the Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli LGA, near the boundary with Ubachima Forest in Awomama, Oru West LGA. There, they encountered a group of terrorists who opened fire upon sighting the operatives. In the ensuing exchange, three additional terrorist kingpins were neutralized. The security forces recovered two more AK-47 rifles, each loaded with 36 rounds of live ammunition, one pump-action gun, one cutlass, four motorcycles, and various criminal charms.
The operations mark a significant victory in the ongoing fight against violent crime and terrorism in the region. The recovery of nine AK-47 rifles, 14 pump-action guns, and other weapons clearly shows the scale and seriousness of the threat posed by these terror group and their criminal network.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives involved in the operations. He emphasized the importance of continued vigilance and collaboration among security agencies to dismantle criminal networks and ensure the safety of citizens.
### Commitment to Public Safety
In a statement, Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to maintaining law and order. He assured the public that operations against criminal elements would continue with renewed vigor, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities.
“These operations reflect the unwavering determination of the Nigeria Police Force to protect lives and property, restore community trust, and foster a peaceful and secure nation,” Adejobi said. “We call on all Nigerians to support our efforts by providing timely intelligence and cooperating with security agencies.”
### A Call for Sustained Efforts
The successful operations in Imo State highlight the critical need for sustained efforts to combat terrorism and organized crime. The Nigeria Police Force has pledged to intensify intelligence gathering, enhance community engagement, and strengthen inter-agency collaboration to address emerging security challenges.
As the nation grapples with the threat of violent crime, the recent successes in Imo State serve as a reminder of the resilience and dedication of Nigeria’s security forces. The recovery of weapons and the neutralization of key terrorist figures are significant steps toward restoring peace and security in the region.
The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the lives and property of all Nigerians, reinforcing its commitment to building a safer and more secure nation.
