Amby Uneze in Owerri
The sustained counter-insurgency operations by security agencies, led by the Department of State Services (DSS), have continued to weaken the operational capacity of suspected Eastern Security Network (ESN) militants in Imo State, resulting in what security sources describe as growing disarray within the group’s camps.
Within the last one month, security operatives reportedly neutralised several suspected ESN fighters during separate operations. Among those identified were two alleged notorious commanders, Solomon Akarachukwu Alisiobi, also known as “Maddox”, and Chima Azubuogu, alias “Akajiofor”, during raids on camps linked to suspected commanders Ifeanyi Okorienta-Eze, popularly called “Gentle de Yahoo”, and Monday Oluchi Ogu, also known as “B44”.
The Department of State Services in the State has been widely credited for providing the intelligence, coordination and operational leadership behind many of the successful joint operations carried out alongside other security agencies.
Available security information indicates that the relative calm witnessed across parts of the state in recent weeks is largely attributable to coordinated offensives by the joint security forces against the armed group.
The sources said the operations have significantly disrupted the command structure of the militant network, depleted its fighting strength and forced surviving members into disarray, making it increasingly difficult for the group to coordinate attacks.
Sustained intelligence-driven approach, according to security stakeholders, has contributed to the noticeable reduction in violent attacks and improved public confidence in the state’s security architecture.
Residents have continued to commend the quiet but determined efforts of the DSS and other security agencies, noting that the improved security situation has enabled many communities to resume normal social and economic activities. They, however, urged the security forces to sustain the momentum until all criminal elements are dismantled and lasting peace is fully restored across the state.
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