••• Recovers Weapons and Rescues Hostages Across States
By Joy Yesufu
The Nigerian Army has announced the capture of Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, also known as General Gentle de Yahoo, a self-proclaimed commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
According to reports, citing military sources, Okorienta was apprehended by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, in collaboration with other security agencies.
The military disclosed that the operation led to the recovery of a cache of weapons and assorted items, including an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, a cartridge, six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and a German flag.
Troops also uncovered a workshop allegedly used for dismantling stolen vehicles for resale and destroyed 10 motorcycles found at the scene.
Beyond Imo State, the Nigerian Army said its personnel carried out coordinated operations in Adamawa, Katsina, and Kogi States, rescuing a total of 11 kidnap victims.
Five victims were freed in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa, another five in Malumfashi, Katsina, and two in Lokoja, Kogi State.
In Katsina, troops reportedly killed two terrorists and recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a motorcycle.
In Benue State, soldiers killed a violent extremist and recovered charms and a mobile phone, while 11 suspects linked to armed robbery, gunrunning, and violent extremism were arrested across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States.
In Plateau State, troops recovered 40 stolen cattle and handed them over to their rightful owners.
The Nigerian Army attributed these successes to sustained collaboration with sister security agencies, stressing that the coordinated operations were part of efforts to restore peace and security across the country.
