By John Ikani
A mixed team of military and other security operatives have raided the secret camp of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), at Akpawfu Community in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State on Friday, killing several members of the groups.
The raid came just hours after Wednesday attacks and the killing of some policemen by men suspected to be members of the ESN at a checkpoint in Obeagu Awkunanaw Community of Enugu State.
A source told newsmen that the ESN members stiffly resisted the security operatives from accessing their camp, engaging them in a gun duel which the source said lasted for several hours.
The casualty figure on either side could not, however, be ascertained by press time.
Meanwhile, residents of the three communities were said to have fled their homes and sought refuge in the bush for fear of being arrested by the military men, who reportedly made several arrests.
“As I am talking to you now Akpawfu and neighboring communities of Akpugo and Amagunze have been deserted as the security men have invaded the entire area searching for the ESN members. The heavy sound of gunfire we are hearing could be likened to that of a raging war,” the source recalled.
Most young men have reportedly fled to other communities and to the urban centres to evade arrest he said.
“There is confusion everywhere and we hope that the innocent who have nothing to do with the attacks on the police are not made to suffer for the offence they did not commit,” the source added.
