The Nigerian Army has announced the arrest of a notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), identified as Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, also known as “Gentle de Yahoo.”
The arrest was carried out by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade in collaboration with other security agencies. According to reports from the Army, Okorienta was apprehended at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
Details of the Operation
- Location: The operation was conducted based on credible intelligence about the suspect’s hideout.
- Recovered Items: The raid on the hideout led to the recovery of a significant cache of arms and other items, including an English pistol, various rounds of 7.62mm special and NATO ammunition, a live cartridge, six mobile phones, and both military and police uniforms.
- Criminal Workshop Uncovered: In addition to the weapons, the troops also discovered and destroyed a workshop used for dismantling stolen vehicles. Ten motorcycles found at the scene were also destroyed.
Significance of the Arrest
The military views this arrest as a major blow to the activities of IPOB and ESN elements in the South-East region, particularly those involved in kidnapping, arms possession, impersonation, and the sale of stolen vehicle parts. Okorienta’s name had recently gained notoriety on social media after he allegedly posted a video of himself shooting three of his followers who he accused of stealing phones.
IPOB’s Reaction
In a swift response, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has denied that Okorienta is one of their members. The group, through its spokesperson, stated that the suspect had publicly denied any affiliation with IPOB, and accused the Nigerian security agencies of fabricating stories to tarnish the group’s image.
This arrest is part of a series of coordinated military operations across various states aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks that have been a source of insecurity in different parts of Nigeria.
