…Rescues multiple kidnap victims
Our Reporter
Notorious non-state actor and self-proclaimed commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who had terrorizing Okigwe and its environs, Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, popularly known as Gentle de Yahoo, has been arrested by troops of the Nigerian Army.
Ikengaonline learned that the dreaded kingpin who had held Okigwe residents to ransom for years, was captured during a coordinated intelligence-driven operation at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
His arrest is coming less than two weeks after Igbo women under the aegis of Igbo Women Assembly, IWA, raised alarm over unprecedented killings and disappearances of youths in Okigwe, and challenged Government to take action or risk the wrath of Igbo women.
Meanwhile a source said the successful operation that led to the arrest of Commander Gentle was executed by “troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, working closely with sister security services and other law enforcement agencies.”
A source close to the operation said that during the raid, troops seized a cache of weapons and other items linked to the group’s violent activities.
“Recovered items include One English-made pistol,120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, One cartridge, Six mobile phones, Military and Police uniforms, and, a German flag, reportedly used as a symbol by the terror group.
“In addition, the troops uncovered a workshop used to dismantle stolen vehicles for resale, disrupting a major criminal enterprise in the region. Ten motorcycles found at the scene were destroyed to prevent further use in criminal operations.
Military sources described the arrest as a “major relief for residents” of Imo State, who have endured months of attacks, kidnappings, and extortion allegedly orchestrated by Gentle de Yahoo and his gang.
“This arrest is a clear message that no criminal, no matter how notorious, can hide forever. The people of Imo can now breathe easier,” the source added.
Meanwhile, residents in Okigwe and surrounding communities have hailed the operation as a significant step toward restoring peace in the South-East. Many expressed optimism that the capture of the fugitive will reduce violent attacks in the area.
Okigwe and its environs, had in the recent times become too dangerous to live in, thus leading to migration of residents to other towns for safety.
The gateway town is almost a ghost of its shadow due to insecurity as killing and disappearance of youths have become almost a routine.
