An official statement from the Nigerian Army announced the capture of Uchechukwu Akpa, the leader of the armed wing of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), known as the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Enugu State’s Awgu Local Government Area. Additionally, three suspected members of IPOB/ESN, Udoka Ude, Ikechukwu Ulanta, and Ezennaya Udeigewere, were also taken into custody.
The military reported that the four individuals were apprehended during a raid on their hideout at Christ the King Catholic Church in Ameta Mgbowo of Awgu Local Government Area. During the operation, Akpa sustained a gunshot wound while attempting to flee. Four live cartridges were also confiscated from the suspects.
The statement indicated, “The arrest was made possible during a raid operation of their hideout while they were holding a meeting to take over the leadership of IPOB/ESN autopilot command, Enugu State chapter, from apprehended former commander, Chocho. Other individuals apprehended are Udoka Anthony Ude, Ikechukwu Ulanta, and Ezennaya Udeigewere, with four live cartridges recovered as well.”
The Army also disclosed the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, AK-47 magazine, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO special ammunition, and a pump action rifle at another hideout in Nenwe of Agwu LGA.
“The GOC 82 Div Nigerian Army; Maj Gen HT Dada, wishes to appreciate the incredible cooperation of other security agencies for the success of the operation. He wishes to enjoin the good people of the South-East region to support and continually provide timely, reliable and credible information that will lead to the arrest of more unscrupulous elements,” the statement concluded.
