The Nigerian Army has announced the arrest of Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, popularly known as “Gentle de Yahoo,” a self-proclaimed commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

According to military sources, the arrest took place in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, where troops stormed his hideout. During the operation, soldiers recovered a pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, assorted military and police uniforms, six mobile phones, and a German flag. A workshop used for dismantling stolen vehicles for resale was also uncovered, and ten motorcycles found at the premises were destroyed.

The operation was part of a wider series of coordinated missions across different parts of the country. In Adamawa, five kidnapped victims were rescued in Madagali, while five others were freed in Katsina State. In Lokoja, Kogi State, troops also rescued kidnapped persons and arrested suspects linked to violent crimes. Security forces neutralized several terrorists in Katsina, recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a motorcycle. In Benue State, one violent extremist was killed, with charms and a mobile phone recovered. Eleven suspects were arrested across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States for alleged involvement in armed robbery, gunrunning, and extremist activities, while 40 stolen cattle were recovered in Plateau State and handed over to their rightful owners.

The arrest of Gentle de Yahoo is being described as a major breakthrough in the fight against separatist militancy and other criminal activities across the country. Security analysts say the recovery of weapons, uniforms, and intelligence items indicates that the hideout served as more than just a refuge, but also an operational base for coordinated attacks.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the charges to be brought against the suspect, but his arrest is expected to deal a significant blow to IPOB/ESN operations in the South-East.