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The Nigerian Army said it has arrested the commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra’s (IPOB) armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network, Uchechukwu Akpa, in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The military, in a release on Thursday, added that three other suspected members of IPOB/ESN, Udoka Ude, Ikechukwu Ulanta, and Ezennaya Udeigewere, were also arrested.
According to the military, the four suspects were apprehended after their hideout located at Christ the King Catholic Church in Ameta Mgbowo of Awgu Local Government Atea was raided.
It added that Akpa sustained a gunshot wound while attempting to flee.
Four live cartridges were also recovered from the suspects.
The statement read, “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.
“Others arrested are;, Udoka Anthony Ude, Ikechukwu Ulanta, and Ezennaya Udeigewere while four live cartridges were recovered.
“It could be recalled that Mr Uchechukwu Akpa was the second-in-command to Chocho, a notorious IPOB/ESN criminal who earlier escaped to Benue State due to the intensity of own operations and was recently arrested. The arrested criminals are presently in custody for further exploitation.”
It further disclosed the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, AK-47 magazine, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO special ammunition and one pump action rifle at another hideout located 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 added.
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