The Police Command in Imo State has successfully foiled an attack on Tuesday by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN). Police Public Relations Officer ASP Henry Okoye announced this in a statement on Wednesday in Owerri, calling the incident a significant operational success against violent crime linked to the proscribed group.

He explained that the attack was repelled when hoodlums launched an assault on the command’s Counter Terrorism Unit during a routine patrol. “On October 29, 2024, at approximately 6:30 p.m., operatives from the Command’s Counter Terrorism Unit successfully repelled an attack by suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists during a routine patrol on the Owerri/Aba Road, near Owerri Airport. The attackers, numbering about ten in two vehicles, launched a violent assault, but were effectively countered by the unit who demonstrated valour.”

Okoye reported that one suspect was neutralized during the gun battle, while the others fled with gunshot injuries, abandoning their operational vehicle, a Mercedes Jeep with Lagos State registration number AAA 101 GR. “Fortunately, no member of the police team suffered any casualty or injuries,” he added.

The operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle, fifteen rounds of 9.62mm live ammunition, an IPOB/ESN flag, and the abandoned vehicle. Ongoing efforts are being made to apprehend the fleeing suspects. Okoye appealed to the public, especially medical practitioners, to report anyone seen with or seeking treatment for gunshot injuries to the nearest police station. He reiterated the command’s commitment to ensuring public safety, promising necessary measures to address any threats to peace in the state.