Troops Dislodge ESN's Stronghold In Anambra

Troops of the Nigerian Army alongside other security agencies on Monday invaded and dislodged one of the strongholds of Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) located in Anambra State.

Lilu Forest in the Ihiala Local Government Area of the state is a border town between Imo and the Anambra States. It was hitherto known to be used as an operational base of the dissidents.

In a statement, the Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu said the operation led to the neutralization of some gunmen in a firefight that ensued.

“After dislodging the dissidents from their fortress, the dogged troops recovered 10 Pump Action Shotguns, two locally fabricated guns, one Revolver pistol, rounds of 7.62 mm special, live cartridges, machetes and IPOB flags. Other items recovered are mobile phones, laptops amongst other dangerous weapons.

“The operation was jointly conducted by troops of 82 Division, Nigerian Navy, 211 Quick Response Group of the Nigerian Air Force, Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police. 

"It was a well-coordinated dawn attack on the fortress, where plans were been perfected to violently enforce the illegitimate sit-at-home declaration by the irredentist groups.”