Police in Anambra State have arrested a 62-year-old man, Bernard Odinchefu, for allegedly working as an informant and levy collector for the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The suspect was picked up by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad during a raid in Isseke community, Ihiala Local Government Area. Police said he was enforcing payments on behalf of the outlawed group in both Isseke and Orsumuoghu communities.
According to investigators, Odinchefu was extorting N10,000 monthly from traders in the area. Families hosting burials or other social functions were also compelled to pay at least N100,000 before carrying out their events. The proceeds were allegedly sent to his commander based in a nearby terrorist camp.
The arrest was made on October 1, and Odinchefu is now in custody as investigations continue. Police described the move as part of a wider operation aimed at disrupting criminal activities and dismantling structures used by IPOB and ESN to intimidate residents.
Anambra’s Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, assured that the Command will sustain its crackdown on groups exploiting communities under the cover of separatist agitation. He urged residents to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies in their efforts to restore peace in the state.


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