Troops arrest suspected IPOB/ESN explosives expert in Abia

Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, have arrested a suspected explosives-making expert allegedly linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, ESN, in Abia State.

The development was disclosed by security analyst Zagazola Makama in a post on his official X handle, citing security sources.

According to the sources, the operation was carried out at about 3:50 a.m. on July 12 at Ummuene community in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of the state.

The sources said troops from the Headquarters, 14 Brigade, working alongside DSS operatives from the Abia and Enugu State Commands, stormed the suspect’s hideout following credible intelligence.

“The operation led to the arrest of the suspect, described as an alleged explosives-making specialist for the IPOB/ESN network,” the sources said.

The sources added that two mobile phones were recovered from the suspect during the operation.

“The suspect and the recovered items have been handed over to the DSS Abia State Command for further investigation and other necessary actions,” the sources stated.

They noted that the arrest was part of ongoing security efforts in the region.

“The arrest forms part of ongoing intelligence-led security operations aimed at dismantling criminal and extremist networks operating in the South-East,” the sources added.