The Imo State Police Command has arrested five suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN).

Sources confirmed the arrest to Zagazola, saying that the suspects were arrested in Imo and Rivers States following intelligence-led operations.

The sources said the operation was carried out by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, sequel to the confession of two IPOB/ESN kingpins earlier arrested at the group’s B44 Camp in Ezioha.

According to the sources, the suspects arrested include; Iwuji Chima, 33, of Ubah Agwa, Oguta LGA, a vigilante operative in Agwa allegedly working for ESN at B44 Camp; Chimezie Uwala, 32, of Ubah Agwa, Oguta LGA, described as an accomplice; Kingsley Melete, 51, of Ubah Agwa, Oguta LGA, a vigilante coordinator also accused of working with B44; Chinemere Nwoke, 24, of Obudi Agwa, Oguta LGA, alleged brother of a wanted ESN commander known as Charles, Ogochukwu Nwoke, 30; and wife of the said Commander Charles, currently at large.

Sources said the arrests followed tracking operations that began at Elele in Rivers State around 1:15 a.m. on Sept. 20, and continued in Agwa, Oguta LGA of Imo State, at about 4:50 a.m.

Sources said the arrested kingpins confessed to their terrorism activities aimed at actualizing a so-called Biafra Republic.

The sources added that investigations were ongoing to track and apprehend other fleeing members of the group. (Zagazola)