The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of a notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), identified as Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, popularly known as Gentle de Yahoo.

According to a military statement, Okorienta was apprehended by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade in a joint operation with other security agencies at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.

Troops reportedly recovered a cache of arms and items from the hideout, including 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, as well as a German flag.

The Army also uncovered a workshop allegedly used for dismantling stolen vehicles for resale and destroyed 10 motorcycles found at the scene.

Beyond the Imo operation, the military said troops carried out coordinated missions in Adamawa, Katsina, and Kogi States, which led to the rescue of 11 kidnap victims. Five persons were freed in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa, another five in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina, while two were rescued in Lokoja, Kogi State.

In Katsina, two terrorists were neutralised, with an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a motorcycle recovered. Troops in Benue also killed a violent extremist and seized charms and a mobile phone. Meanwhile, 11 suspects linked to armed robbery, gunrunning, and violent extremism were arrested across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States.

The Army further disclosed that in Plateau State, 40 rustled cattle were recovered and returned to their rightful owners.

The Nigerian Army attributed these successes to sustained collaboration with sister security services and other security agencies.