Nigeria Police operatives have raided a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout in Imo State, recovering weapons, drones, ammunition, and Biafra currency in a major security operation.
Police Storm Imo Hideout
The Nigeria Police Force carried out the raid in Nguru, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.
Police said the operation took place on April 23, 2026, following intelligence reports.
However, the force described the action as a major breakthrough in the nationwide fight against violent extremism and organised criminal networks.
The raid targeted a suspected enclave linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Intelligence Led To Arrests
Meanwhile, Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, disclosed the development in a statement on Sunday.
He said operatives acted on useful intelligence gathered from the confessional statement of a senior IPOB/ESN commander, Ebube Uchenna Mmaduakolam, also known as “Ebube Virus.”
Consequently, police arrested three suspects during the raid.
The suspects remain in lawful custody and are assisting investigators with details on the group’s logistics chain, personnel network, and planned operations.
Weapons, Drones Recovered
Furthermore, police said a detailed search of the hideout uncovered a cache of dangerous items.
Recovered exhibits include two General-Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs), 3,115 rounds of GPMG ammunition, one AK-47 assault rifle, and one pump-action shotgun.
Operatives also recovered several surveillance drones and Biafra currency in different denominations.
Security analysts say such drones can help criminal groups monitor troop movement and security patrols.
IGP Commends Operatives
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police praised operatives of the Imo State Command for their courage, professionalism, and tactical precision.
He said the successful operation has reduced the operational strength of the IPOB/ESN network in the South-east.
Consequently, the IGP said the seizure of weapons and other materials dealt a serious blow to the group’s activities in the region.
Police Reaffirm Security Promise
In response, the Nigeria Police Force restated its commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.
The force also said it will continue to uphold the rule of law and sustain operations against criminal gangs, separatist violence, and other security threats.
