End of the road for Simon Epka’s sit-at-home enforcer, unknown gunmen commander, Gentle De Yahoo
Joseph Irikefe
Days after the Nigerian Army confirmed that it has captured the notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, otherwise known as Gentle de Yahoo, people in the Okigwe axies of Imo State have been thrown into jubilation.
Gentle as he called is called was said to be behind the killings, kidnappings and destruction of properties in Okigwe and Orlu communities and the border communities of Imo and Anambra states for over two years.
This terror merchant was said to be working for the Simon Epka’s faction of IPOB, otherwise known as Auto Pilot and was Simon Ekpa’s main enforcer of the Monday’s sit-at-home in the South East.
Troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, in collaboration with other security agencies, apprehended Okorienta at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
The military reported that the operation resulted in the seizure of a cache of weapons and other items, including an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, a cartridge, six mobile phones, military and police uniforms, and a German flag.
Troops also uncovered a workshop used for dismantling stolen vehicles for resale and destroyed 10 motorcycles found at the scene.
Sources said the feared kingpin, who had for years terrorized communities across Okigwe and neighboring areas, was captured during a coordinated intelligence-driven operation at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State.
Military sources described the arrest as a “major relief for residents” of Imo State, who have endured months of attacks, kidnappings, and extortion allegedly orchestrated by Gentle de Yahoo and his gang.
“This arrest is a clear message that no criminal, no matter how notorious, can hide forever. The people of Imo can now breathe easier,” the source added.
Residents in Okigwe and surrounding communities have hailed the operation as a significant step toward restoring peace in the South East. Many expressed optimism that the capture of the fugitive will reduce violent attacks in the area.
Community leaders, while praising the troops, urged authorities to maintain the momentum by dismantling remaining criminal cells and improving intelligence sharing among agencies.
Beyond the Imo operation, troops carried out coordinated missions in Adamawa, Katsina, and Kogi States, rescuing 11 kidnap victims. Five persons were freed in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa, another five in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina, while two were rescued in Lokoja, Kogi State.
Army also disclosed that two terrorists were killed in Katsina, where troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, rounds of ammunition, and a motorcycle.
In Benue, soldiers killed a violent extremist and seized charms and a mobile phone. Eleven suspects linked to armed robbery, gunrunning, and violent extremism were also arrested across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States.
In Plateau State, troops recovered 40 stolen cattle and handed them back to their rightful owners.
The Nigerian Army attributed these achievements to continued cooperation with sister services and other security agencies.