Joint security operations led by the Department of State Services have intensified pressure on suspected Eastern Security Network fighters in Imo State, with two alleged commanders reportedly killed during recent raids.

Security sources identified the deceased as Solomon Akarachukwu Alisiobi, also known as Maddox, and Chima Azubuogu, popularly called Akajiofor. They were reportedly killed during separate operations against camps linked to suspected commanders Ifeanyi Okorienta Eze, known as Gentle de Yahoo, and Monday Oluchi Ogu, also called B44.

The operations, conducted over the past month, were said to have weakened the group’s command structure and reduced its ability to coordinate attacks. Security officials attributed the recent relative calm in parts of the state to sustained intelligence gathering, joint planning and coordinated raids by the DSS and other agencies.

According to the sources, several suspected fighters were neutralised, while surviving members were forced to abandon their positions and scatter into smaller groups. The disruption has reportedly made communication and operational planning increasingly difficult for the network.

Security stakeholders said the intelligence driven strategy has also helped restore public confidence and reduce violent incidents in affected communities. They maintained that continued cooperation among the agencies would be necessary to prevent the militants from regrouping and to consolidate the gains recorded so far.