The Joint Security Task Force in Imo State, known as Operation Udoka, has uncovered shallow graves allegedly used by members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), to bury their victims. The discovery was made during a clearance operation in Aku community, Okigwe Local Government Area, which has reportedly been under the control of a suspected IPOB leader, Ifeanyi Okorienta, also known as “Gentle.”
During the raid, the task force recovered several stolen vehicles, arms, ammunition, and explosive devices.
Speaking during an assessment tour of the area, Brigadier General Usman Lawal, Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, accompanied by the State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, and the Special Adviser to the Imo State Governor on Security, Joseph Ogbonna, emphasized the operation’s significance. He stated that the clearance was part of the collaborative efforts between security agencies and the state government to end the era of terror and insecurity caused by IPOB and ESN activities.
He further revealed that 20 suspects have been arrested and are currently in police custody. Lawal also urged community members to cooperate with security forces to maintain peace and stability in the area.
Over the years, Aku community, which shares a border with Abia State, has been a hotspot for crimes, including kidnapping, killings, and harassment by suspected IPOB members.
Security operatives expressed optimism that liberating the area would bring relief to residents, particularly as the Yuletide season approaches.
