Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested a suspected Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) kingpin, identified by the alias “Calamity,” in Ebonyi State.
The arrest, which took place in the early hours of April 21, 2026, was carried out by troops of Sector 2, Operation UDO KA, as part of the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY aimed at tackling criminal activities in the South-East and surrounding regions.
According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, the suspect was apprehended alongside four others during a raid on a hideout in Nwofe, Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
Ayeni said the operation followed credible intelligence linking the suspects to the killing of a police officer and the injury of another during an attack at Okuku-Igbo in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State on February 26, 2026.
“The operation was conducted following credible intelligence that linked the suspect and his cohort to the killing of a police officer and the injury of another during an attack at Okuku-Igbo in Oshimili North LGA, Delta State,” he stated.
He added that during the February attack, the assailants allegedly made away with two AK-47 rifles.
The Army spokesperson further disclosed that the suspect and his group had relocated to Ebonyi State in a bid to evade arrest following intensified security operations in Delta State.
“In an attempt to evade arrest after intensified security operations in Delta State, ‘Calamity’ and his men relocated to Ebonyi State to establish a new criminal camp and continue their violent activities,” Ayeni said.
He noted that troops acted on actionable intelligence to storm the hideout, leading to the arrest of the five suspects, including the alleged commander.
“At the time of arrest, ‘Calamity’ was found in possession of a black handbag containing five mobile phones and numerous keys,” Ayeni said, adding that a black Kcsanya motorcycle was also recovered from the scene.
The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation, with efforts ongoing to dismantle the wider criminal network and recover additional weapons.
“This successful operation underscores the determination of the Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security agencies, to neutralise terrorist threats, restore peace, and protect law-abiding citizens,” Ayeni said.
