The Anambra State Police Command conducted a raid on a camp allegedly belonging to members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Ufuma, Orumba North Local Government Area. The operation resulted in the apprehension of four suspects, according to a statement released by SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the state police spokesperson.
“The Police-led Joint Security Force in Aguata on 17/6/2024 intercepted four suspected ESN militia in Ufuma, Orumba North LGA in Anambra State,” Ikenga confirmed. He further explained that the raid was prompted by intelligence indicating planned attacks on security personnel and innocent civilians by the group.
Among the arrested individuals was Maduabuchi Nwafor, alias Omenkpo, a 32-year-old native of Ufuma, identified as a local practitioner of mystical arts for the group. According to Ikenga, Nwafor allegedly utilized his shrine for initiation rituals and as a meeting point for criminal activities. Additionally, one of the detainees, whose name has been withheld, confessed to being part of the armed group tasked with enforcing the illegal sit-at-home order on May 30, 2024.
CP Nnaghe Itam, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, has directed an extensive investigation to uncover further hideouts of the insurgents.