DSS Arrests Suspected ESN Commander Linked to Killing of 11 Labourers and 5 Policemen in Enugu

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested a suspected commander of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), identified as Sabastine Odo Odam, over his alleged involvement in a series of violent attacks that claimed multiple lives in Enugu State.

According to security sources, the suspect is believed to have played a key role in attacks that resulted in the deaths of 11 labourers and five police officers in Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, an area that has experienced recurring security challenges in recent months.

The DSS also arrested another suspect, Ejike Daniel, who is believed to be a member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Both arrests were made during an intelligence-led operation conducted on Friday, March 6, in the communities of Eha-Amufu and Umuhu.

Months of Surveillance

Security sources disclosed that the arrests followed months of surveillance and intelligence gathering by the DSS, which had been tracking the suspects over their alleged roles in attacks targeting security personnel and civilians.

Investigators believe the suspects were involved in assaults on police stations in the area, during which weapons were reportedly stolen and later used in subsequent attacks.

Authorities say the suspects have already made confessional statements linking them to multiple incidents of violence in the region.

Among the incidents under investigation is the killing of 11 labourers on February 26. The victims were reportedly working in the area when they were attacked by armed assailants.

The suspects are also accused of involvement in the killing of five police officers in separate attacks that occurred between December 24, 2025 and January 26, 2026.

Community Reaction

Residents of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area have reacted to the arrests with cautious optimism, expressing hope that the development could help restore peace and stability in communities that have been repeatedly affected by violence.

Local leaders have for months raised concerns about the security situation in the area, particularly in communities such as Eha-Amufu, which has witnessed several deadly incidents involving armed groups.

The arrest of the suspects is therefore seen by some residents as a significant step toward addressing the persistent insecurity in the region.

Ongoing Investigation

Security officials confirmed that both suspects are currently being held in DSS custody as investigations continue.

Authorities indicated that the suspects would be formally charged in court once the investigation is concluded.

The Eastern Security Network, which authorities say operates as a paramilitary arm of IPOB, has been blamed by security agencies for several attacks on security formations and government facilities in parts of southeastern Nigeria.

However, the group and its supporters have repeatedly denied involvement in many of the incidents attributed to it.

Wider Security Concerns

The arrests highlight ongoing security tensions in southeastern Nigeria, where clashes between security forces and armed groups have contributed to instability in several communities.

Over the past few years, security agencies have intensified operations in the region in an effort to curb attacks on police stations, government facilities and civilians.

Analysts say the outcome of investigations and subsequent court proceedings will be closely watched as authorities attempt to bring those responsible for violent attacks to justice while addressing broader security concerns in the region.

For residents of Isi-Uzo and surrounding communities, the arrests have raised hopes that law enforcement efforts may finally help reduce the cycle of violence that has disrupted daily life and threatened livelihoods in the area.