Imo police kill IPOB member who razed Adapalm equipment

From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri

The Imo Police Command has recorded a significant development in the recent attack on Adapalm, a state government property, where an alleged member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) IPOB/ESN group was killed during a gun duel with security personnel.

The incident occurred on March 3, 2026, after the group had set heavy machinery and equipment on fire.

Newly appointed Commissioner of Police in the State, Garba Bosso, who disclosed the incident while briefing journalists, said the police Anti-Kidnapping Unit had received a distress call and intervened, leading to a gun battle in which one of the hoodlum was shot and later died.

He further said that his men have intensified security in the area and recovered arms and ammunition, including three AK-47 rifles and 65 rounds of live ammunition, during a subsequent operation on March 14, 2026.

Similarly in separate counter operation conducted by the command in Orsu Local Government, the CP said the IPOB/ESN camp was raided leading to the recovery of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and some vehicles.

He said,”On March 3,the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, State Headquarters, Owerri, received a distress call from the CSO of Adapalm, Ohaji/Egbema LG, Stanley Unamba, reporting that armed men, suspected members of the outlawed IPOB/ESN militia group, had invaded the State Government property, ADAPALM, and set heavy machinery and equipment on fire.

‎”When security personnel attempted to intervene, the hoodlums engaged them in a gun duel. During the exchange, one hoodlum sustained gunshot injuries and he was taken to the hospital, and later confirmed dead by a medical practitioner on duty . His body was deposited at the FUTHO mortuary for preservation, autopsy, and further investigation.

Meanwhile, Bosso has urged residents to provide credible information to ensure a safe and peaceful Eid-el-Fitr celebration.