Nigerian Navy Hands Over Five Suspected IPOB/ESN Members to DSS in Anambra

The Nigerian Navy has transferred five persons suspected to be linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Eastern Security Network (ESN), and other criminal groups to the Department of State Services (DSS) in Anambra State for further investigation.

The development was disclosed in a statement signed by the Naval Director of Information, Commodore Abiodun Folorunsho.

According to the statement, the suspects were arrested by personnel of the Naval Outpost (NOP) Onitsha, operating under the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Amiyi, following intelligence reports connecting them to alleged criminal activities in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The Navy said preliminary investigations identified one of the suspects as the alleged coordinator of the group’s activities within affected communities, while the others were said to be members or associates of the network.

Security operatives also reportedly uncovered locations allegedly used for meetings and recruitment activities linked to the group.

The suspects were subsequently handed over to the DSS in line with inter-agency security collaboration and existing operational procedures for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The Navy noted that the operation reflects its continued commitment to supporting internal security operations and combating violent extremism, criminality, and threats to national security.

It added that the service remains committed to working with other security agencies to maintain peace, stability, and the protection of lives and property across the country.