Troops Raid IPOB/ESN Terrorist Hideout, Seize Biafran Currency in Imo

Troops of the Nigerian Army have stated that it raided a hideout of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Ihiteukwa, Orsu LGA, Imo State, with an intense firefight on Saturday.

Army spokesman Onyema Nwachukwu announced in a statement on Sunday that troops also seized a bundle of proscribed Biafran currency.

According to Army spokesman Onyema Nwachukwu, the troops conducted a thorough search of the hideout and recovered several other items.

The items included three improvised explosive devices, one Toyota Highlander SUV, and one Hilux vehicle.

Others were eight rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, six rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition, and one locally fabricated single barrel gun.

Also, in another encounter, the troops engaged IPOB/ESN terrorists at their crossing point in the Akawa Nneato area of Umunneochi LGA, Abia.

He said:

“Other items recovered from the terrorists’ hideout include a pair of proscribed Biafran uniforms, one solar panel and one CCTV camera.

“Troops also recovered 10 mobile phones, batteries, a bundle of proscribed Biafran currency, three solar street lights, three jungle hats, pairs of black boots, and assorted charms.

“On exploiting further after the shootout, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with 19 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, two empty magazines, and one FN rifle loaded with four rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition.

“In another development, troops operating in the Kawara general area of Birnin Gwari Forest in Kaduna state have cleared and destroyed a series of terrorists’ camps in the area.

“During the operation, troops recovered three motorbikes, one PKT gun link containing 246 rounds of 7.62mm by 39mm ammunition, one woodland camouflage and a pair of Desert boots. Other items recovered include three magazine carriers and one Baofeng radio.

“Troops have dominated the general area and are conducting further exploits in pursuit of the insurgents.

“The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of citizens and will continue to sustain operations to sanitize troubled areas in order to restore peace and stability in the country.”