The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, a notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), widely known by his alias Gentle de Yahoo.
According to the Army, troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, operating in collaboration with other security agencies, apprehended Okorienta at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
The operation also led to the seizure of weapons, uniforms, and other items linked to the insurgent group.
Recovered items included an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, a cartridge, six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and a German flag.
Troops also uncovered a workshop used for dismantling stolen vehicles for resale and destroyed 10 motorcycles found on site.
The operation formed part of coordinated missions conducted across multiple states. In Adamawa, Katsina, and Kogi, troops rescued 11 kidnap victims, while in Katsina two terrorists were neutralised with an AK-47 rifle, rounds of ammunition, and a motorcycle recovered.
In Benue, one extremist was killed, with charms and a mobile phone seized.
The Army further reported the arrest of 11 suspects linked to armed robbery, gunrunning, and violent extremism in Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States.
In Plateau, 40 stolen cattle were recovered and returned to their owners.
The military credited the successes to enhanced collaboration with sister services and security agencies, stressing that the operations reflect its continued commitment to restoring stability and protecting communities across Nigeria.