Imo State ESN camps in trouble following security pressure, DSS offensive
Their are indications that the sustained counter-insurgency operations by security agencies, led by Imo State Department of State Services (DSS), have continued to weaken the operational capacity of suspected Eastern Security Network (ESN) militants in the State.
This was revealed by an impeccable source within the DSS that confidentially pleaded for anonymity while interacting with Newstap.com.ng saying that the effect is the growing disarray within the dissident’s camps as witnessed recently.
Critical investigations by this Journalist proved that available security information has shown 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.
It’s pertinent to recall that within the last one month, security operatives reportedly neutralized 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 their suspected commanders like Ifeanyi Okorienta-Eze, popularly called “Gentle de Yahoo”, and Monday Oluchi Ogu, also known as “B44”.
The security source authoritatively informed that the joint security 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.
They emphatically stated that the Department of State Services in Imo 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.
According to the source, “the 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”.
It’s then not surprising that the state 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.
