JUST IN: Suspected IPOB/ESN explosives expert arrested in Abia
A suspected explosives expert linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), has been arrested in Abia State.
Counter-terrorism expert Zagazola Makama reported that the suspect was apprehended in a joint operation by troops of the Nigerian Army and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
According to security sources, the raid was conducted at about 3:50 a.m. on July 12 at Ummuene Community in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
“Troops from the Headquarters, 14 Brigade, acting on intelligence and in conjunction with DSS operatives from Abia and Enugu states, raided the suspect’s hideout,” Makama wrote on X.
Makama stated that the suspect specializes in producing explosives for the proscribed group and its armed wing. Two mobile phones were recovered from him during the operation.
The suspect and the recovered items have been handed over to the DSS Abia State Command for further investigation.
“The arrest forms part of ongoing intelligence-led security operations aimed at dismantling criminal and extremist networks operating in the South-East,” Makama added.
