An Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) kingpin popularly known as ‘Calamity,’ and four others were arrested in the early hours of Tuesday, April 21, by troops of Sector 2, Operation UDO KA operating in the ongoing Operation Eastern Sanity in Ebonyi State.
The suspects were apprehended during a raid on the terrorists’ hideout in Nwofe, Izzi Local Government Area.
The Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, who confirmed this in a statement, said that the arrests were made in sustained offensive and concerted efforts to rid the South East and environs of criminal elements.
According to Lt. Col. Ayeni, “the operation was conducted following credible intelligence that linked the suspect and his cohorts with the killing of a police officer and injuring another during an attack at Okuku-Igbo in Oshimili North Local Government Area, Delta State, on February 26, 2026. During that attack, the assailants carted away two AK-47 rifles.
“In an attempt to evade arrest after intensified security operations in Delta State, ‘Calamity’ and his men relocated to Ebonyi State to look for a safe haven and established a new criminal camp to continue their violent activities.
“Acting on actionable intelligence, troops stormed the hideout and apprehended five suspects, including the commander (Calamity) and four other suspects who are also key members of IPOB/ESN.
“At the time of arrest, ‘Calamity’ was found in possession of a black handbag containing five mobile phones and numerous keys. Additional exhibits recovered included a black Kcsanya motorcycle.
“The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation to dismantle the wider network of criminal collaborators and recover other weapons hidden by the group.”
The 82 Division spokesperson noted that the successful operation was a pointer to the determination of the Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security agencies, to neutralise terrorists’ threats, restore peace, and protect law-abiding citizens across the region.
“The military reiterates its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and calls on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely information that will aid ongoing operations,” she added.
