Nigerian Navy Transfers Five Suspected IPOB and ESN Members to DSS

The Nigerian Navy has transferred five individuals suspected of links to the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and related criminal groups to the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Anambra State Command for further investigation.

Naval Director of Information Abiodun Folorunsho said the suspects were detained by personnel from the Naval Outpost (NOP) in Onitsha, stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Amiyi. The detentions followed intelligence reports that tied the suspects to alleged criminal activities in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Preliminary investigations identified one suspect as the alleged coordinator of the group’s operations within the affected communities, while the others were reportedly connected to the network.

Initial findings also pointed to locations allegedly used for meetings and recruitment activities.

In line with established inter‑agency cooperation and existing regulations, the suspects were handed over to the DSS for further investigation and appropriate action.

The operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s ongoing commitment to supporting internal security efforts and its continuous work to combat criminality, violent extremism, and threats to national security within joint operational areas.

The Nigerian Navy remains dedicated to maintaining collaborative security operations with relevant agencies to ensure peace, stability, and the safeguarding of lives and property throughout the nation.