TheCable

The police command in Anambra says its operatives have killed seven members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN) in the state.

The members of the proscribed group were said to have been killed on two separate operations by police officers in Ifite Ogbunike, Oyi LGA and Akwaihedi, Nnewi South LGA of Anambra.

In a press conference on Wednesday, Echeng Echeng, commissioner of police for Anambra, said the force worked on credible intelligence on the activities of the group in the two LGAs.

He said officers of the rapid response squad (RRS), Akwuzu, raided an ESN camp in Oyi LGA while attempting to rescue two kidnapped victims.

He added that the operatives killed two assailants and recovered a black Lexus SUV alongside police and military uniforms.

Echeng said the second incident happened when police officers “accosted a deadly gang of five operating on motorbikes en route to Anambra for a planned attack/operation”.

The commissioner said the group was engaged in a gun battle, and all the assailants were killed, while police recovered two rocket launchers, four AK47 rifles, one automatic pump action, four magazines, eight live ammunition, berets, and charms.

“We want to assure the good people of Anambra state that the battle against insurgents will remain sustained until such a time when the security of lives and properties are fully restored in the state,” Echeng said.

“The synergy of police, military and other security agencies and vigilante groups has helped immensely in the fight against insurgents in the state. For us today, this is a big positive one that has averted a major planned attack in the state. We give kudos to our gallant policemen.

“I urge everyone to queue into the struggle in ensuring that insecurity is reduced at its lowest ebb in the state.”