Police Deal Major Blow to Terrorism, Neutralize ESN Kingpins in Imo
By Ella Michaels
In a significant milestone in the fight against terrorism, the Nigeria Police Force has neutralized three deadly terrorist kingpins associated with the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Imo State. The operation, which took place on January 24, 2025, resulted in the recovery of dangerous weapons and other assets.
According to reports, police operatives from the Imo State Police Command's tactical unit launched a coordinated operation following credible intelligence. The operatives located the terrorists' hideout in a forest within Ihube, Okigwe LGA, and engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle after coming under heavy fire .
The operation resulted in the neutralization of six members of the terrorist group, including three ESN kingpins:
- Ifeanyi Anayo a.k.a. Zuma De Rock (28)
- Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe a.k.a. Nmimi (22)
- Kingsley Sunday (21)
All three kingpins were natives of Ogube, Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area.
The police also recovered:
- Five AK-47 rifles
- 552 rounds of live ammunition
- Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)
- Several communication equipment
- Eight operational motorcycles used by the group,
Prior investigations revealed the group's involvement in several high-profile crimes, including attacks on the Owerri Correctional Center, killing of policemen, and multiple kidnappings .
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their bravery and coordination, charging them to sustain the tempo and implement the Force's action plan to reduce crimes in the first quarter of 2025.
