The Nigerian Army has confirmed that two soldiers were killed and their weapons stolen by operatives of the Eastern Security Network, the militant arm of the Indigenous People of Biafra, in an incident in Imo State, SAVANNAH NEWSNOW REPORTS.
IPOB is a separatist group seeking the creation of the Republic of Biafra, citing grievances over the marginalization of Nigeria’s South-East region.
The Army stated that troops responded to an emergency call about an attack on Osina Community by IPOB/ESN forces and engaged the attackers with overwhelming firepower, resulting in casualties and the eventual withdrawal of the attackers.
“Unfortunately, two security agents had been killed in action and one other missing in action, with their weapons—a AK-47 rifle and a tear gas launcher—being seized by the terrorists,” the statement said.
The Army confirmed that the bodies of the fallen soldiers had been recovered, and the troops pursued the fleeing militants.
“Contact was again made with the criminal IPOB/ESN elements at Nkwachi Community, and in the firefight that ensued, one of the dissidents was neutralized while others, unable to withstand the troop’s firepower, retreated into the nearby forest. One AK-47 rifle with a fully loaded magazine was recovered, ” the statement said, adding that the troops continued their pursuit into Umalouma forest, where another intense exchange of fire took place.
“The dissidents eventually abandoned their weapons due to the troops’ superior firepower and scattered into the dense forest with severe gunshot wounds. An additional four AK-47 rifles, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, and two magazines were recovered,” the statement added.
The Army assured the public that operations would continue, with efforts to track down and eliminate the remaining criminals. “Further exploitation is ongoing as troops continue to track down the injured terrorists and flush them out of their hideouts and treatment locations,” the statement stated. “We urge all IPOB/ESN elements and other criminals hiding in the bushes to surrender to the nearest troops or face defeat, as the Brigade will ensure that the people of Imo celebrate the Yuletide season in peace, free from fear or intimidation.”
The Nigerian Army urged Imo State residents to continue providing timely intelligence to support the fight against criminal elements and restore law and order in the state.
