By Gloria Attah
The Nigerian Navy has handed over five suspects linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, ESN, to the Department of State Services, DSS, in Anambra State for further investigation.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the suspects were arrested by personnel of Naval Outpost Onitsha deployed at the Forward Operating Base, Amiyi, following intelligence reports connecting them to alleged criminal activities within Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state.
The Navy says preliminary investigations identified one of the suspects as the alleged coordinator of the group’s activities within the affected communities, while the others were reportedly linked to the network.
Authorities also disclosed that initial findings revealed locations allegedly used for meetings and recruitment activities connected to the group.
The suspects were subsequently handed over to the DSS in line with inter-agency collaboration and existing security procedures for further investigation and necessary action.
The Nigerian Navy says the operation highlights its continued commitment to supporting internal security operations and combating criminality, violent extremism and threats to national security across joint operational areas.
The Navy further reaffirmed its commitment to sustained collaboration with other security agencies to ensure peace, stability and the protection of lives and property across the country.
