The Ebonyi State Police Command said three members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network IPOB/ESN have been killed in Izzi Local Government Area of the State.
The Command also announced the arrest of 5 suspects while others escaped when security agents dislodged their hideout.
Ag Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Joshua Ukandu stated this in a statement made, adding that 1 AK-47 Rifle, 2000 rounds of live ammunition, 3 vehicles and other items were recovered from the hoodlums.
Ukandu said the police, in collaboration with other sister security agencies, acting on credible intelligence, stormed the hideout of the outlawed group in a forest within Omini community on 21st March 2024.
The PPRO said that on sighting the operatives, the hoodlums opened fire on them and in the ensuing gun duel, 3 members of the proscribed group were shot dead, 5 were apprehended while others escaped.
“3 Sienna Vehicles snatched from different individuals and used by the hoodlums to perpetrate heinous crimes were recovered at the camp,” the police spokesman said.
He maintained that exhibits recovered at the den indicate that the gang was responsible for the recent attacks and killing of police officers within the state.
“Exhibits recovered in the course of the operation include;
One (1) AK47 rifle with sixteen (16) rounds of live ammunition, a bag containing two thousand (2,000) rounds of live ammunition, a Police Warrant Card.
“Others includes, an Identity Card with a picture Of Nnamdi Kanu, a portrait of an unidentified person, One (1) Itel phone and One (1) motorcycle,” the statement added.
DSP Ukandu said that the State Commissioner of Police, CP Augustina Ogbodo commended the officers involved in the operation for their gallantry, and assured residents of the state that the Command will not relent in its fight against crime.
The Ebonyi State Police Command also restated its commitment to the protection of lives and properties in the state.
