Security Forces Nab IPOB’s Gentle de Yahoo During Raid in Imo State

Nigerian Army Captures Notorious IPOB Commander Gentle de Yahoo in Imo State

In a decisive operation aimed at curbing insurgency and restoring peace in southeastern Nigeria, the Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, a notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

Widely known by his alias "Gentle de Yahoo," Okorienta was apprehended at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, located in the Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.

The arrest was carried out by troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade in collaboration with other security agencies. According to military sources, the operation led to the recovery of a significant cache of arms and other incriminating items.

Among the seized materials were an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, a cartridge, six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and a German flag. 

Troops also discovered a workshop used for dismantling stolen vehicles for resale and destroyed ten motorcycles found at the scene.

The Nigerian Army stated that the arrest of Gentle de Yahoo marks a major breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks and insurgent cells operating in the region. 

The operation in Imo State was part of a broader campaign that included coordinated missions across Adamawa, Katsina, and Kogi States, where troops successfully rescued multiple kidnap victims and neutralized several terrorists.

Gentle de Yahoo had long been on the radar of security forces due to his alleged involvement in violent activities attributed to IPOB and ESN. His capture has reportedly triggered jubilation among security operatives and is seen as a significant step toward restoring stability in the southeast.

The Nigerian Army emphasized that its success was made possible through continued cooperation with sister services and other security agencies, reinforcing its commitment to national security and the protection of civilians.