By Damilare Adeleye
Camps used as hideouts by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) in Imo and Anambra States have been destroyed by airstrikes from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
The air strikes were executed by the Air Component of Operation UDO KA II, and destroyed the IPOB/ESN hideouts in Mother Valley Orsumughu in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State and Aku Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, on Tuesday, September 26.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, spokesperson of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), said the airstrikes were carried out based on credible intelligence made available to the military.
He added that the IPOB/ESN terrorists were planning to carry out attacks in the southeast region but their plans have now been disrupted.
Gabkwet said: “Acting on credible intelligence that IPOB/ESN terrorists had perfected plans to disrupt civic activities lined up in the coming days in Anambra State and other States in Southeast Nigeria from their concealed bunkers/hideouts at Mother Valley Orsumughu, air strikes were authorized in conjunction with ground troops and other security agencies on the location believed to also house some of their weapons and ammunitions.
“The strikes hit the target and were deemed successful following the ball of fire, fleeing terrorists at the location as well as feedback received.”
He added that similar airstrikes were conducted the same day at IPOB/ESN hideouts in Aku Ihube In Imo State “after detailed analysis of intelligence on the terrorists converging for a likely rendezvous at their hideout.”
“Consequently, air strikes were authorized to strike the hideout. The targets were acquired and attacked in succession, with a high degree of success,” Gabkwet said.
The NAF spokesperson gave assurance that security agencies would not relent in their resolve to keep the region and the entire country safe.
”While the determination of the security agencies is unwavering, the support of all Nigerians to the security agencies remains critical to defeating these criminal elements whose only intent is to sow fear and division among the citizenry,” he said.