Tension engulfed communities in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State on Wednesday morning following a fierce gun battle between security operatives and suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN).

The exchange of gunfire, which reportedly began around 5:30 am in the Umualuaku Isu community, triggered panic among residents, forcing many to flee for safety.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the terrifying experience: “Oh God, save us! Bullets were flying everywhere. Those who went for morning mass were caught in the crossfire and got seriously injured trying to run to safety.”

The resident added that the area had been under siege since early morning. “The shooting hasn’t stopped since 5:30 am. People are trapped in their homes. Please let help come to us,” the resident pleaded.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, DSP Henry Okoye, said the shootout was a result of an operation against IPOB/ESN elements in the area.

“We are fully aware of the situation, and the Command, in collaboration with the military and DSS, has taken proactive measures to contain the security threat,” Okoye said.

He added that tactical units had been deployed to track down and apprehend those behind the attack.

The police urged residents to remain calm, security conscious, and report any suspicious movement or activities to the nearest police station. (The Nation)