The Nigerian Army has neutralized a suspected member of the Eastern Security Network, ESN, in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State.
The suspected ESN member was neutralized after an intense gun battle in the militia’s hideout in the Ihiteukwa area of Orsu on Saturday.
Describing the deceased as a “terrorist,” Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, said troops recovered one AK-47 Rifle loaded with 19 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, 2 empty magazines and one FN Rifle loaded with 4 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition.
A statement by Nwachukwu reads: “Nigerian Army troops have successfully cleared IPOB/ESN hideout at Ihiteukwa Community in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, neutralizing one IPOB/ESN Terrorist after an intense firefight on Saturday 2 March 2024.
“On overpowering the fighters, the gallant troops conducted a search in their hideout and recovered 3 Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), one Toyota Highlander SUV, one Hilux vehicle, 8 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, 6 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition and one locally fabricated single barrel gun.
“Other items recovered from the terrorists’ hideout include a pair of proscribed Biafran uniform, one solar panel, one CCTV camera, 10 mobile phones, batteries, a bundle of proscribed Biafran Currency, 3 solar street lights, 3 jungle hats, pairs of black boots and assorted charms.
“In a separate operation, conducted by own troops at a suspected IPOB/ESN crossing point in Akawa Nneato general area of Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, own troops engaged the terrorists in a firefight resulting in the terrorists scampering in disarray into nearby bushes.
“On exploiting further after the shootout, troops recovered one AK-47 Rifle loaded with 19 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, 2 empty magazines and one FN Rifle loaded with 4 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition.”