Tension as Wanted IPOB Top Commander, Four Others Arrested 

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said troops of Operation Delta Safe have arrested a wanted Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) commander, Eze Adeire, popularly known as Ikuku and four others.

It said Ikuku was arrested during an offensive operations conducted between February 8 to 12 in Ahoada and Etche Local Government Areas of Rivers State, and Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The Director Defence Media Operations Major, General Michael Onoja, disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

“Also a notorious terrorist’s gunrunner was apprehended with several locally fabricated rifles in Ahoada Local Government Area,” Onoja said.

The Defence spokesperson said that troops foiled a major oil theft during the week, destroying nine illegal refineries and arresting 11 oil thieves and other criminals, while also recovering assorted arms and ammunition.

He said eight terrorists were arrested and a large cache of weapons recovered during cordon-and-search operations carried out by troops of Operation Udo Ka in the forested areas of Amasiri, Ezekwu Ohaechara, and Obi communities in Afikpo North and Afikpo South Local Government Areas of Ebonyi State.

Onoja said the military remains committed to denying terrorists and other criminal elements the freedom to operate anywhere within the country.

He said the successes recorded in ongoing operations reflect the unwavering determination, resilience, and sacrifice of troops, who he said continue to work tirelessly in defence of the nation’s peace and security.

Onoja assured of the Armed Forces’ resolve to protect lives and property while supporting national stability and development.

“The continued support and cooperation of citizens remain vital to the overall success of our operations and the collective effort to secure a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.