The Nigerian Army has announced that troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade successfully neutralized members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during an operation in Osina, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State.
According to a statement released on the Army’s verified social media platforms, the troops were responding to a distress call about an IPOB/ESN attack on Osina Community when they engaged the armed group. The encounter followed routine patrols in the area. The Army reported that the terrorists were overpowered and forced to flee in disarray due to the intensity of the troops’ firepower.
The operation resulted in casualties, with two security agents killed in action and another missing. The terrorists reportedly carted away an AK-47 rifle and a tear gas launcher belonging to the slain agents. The Army confirmed that the bodies of the deceased were recovered, and troops immediately launched a pursuit of the fleeing dissidents.
The troops made contact with the armed group again at Nkwachi Community, leading to another fierce exchange of gunfire. During the encounter, one of the terrorists was neutralized, while others retreated into the surrounding forest. Weapons recovered during the operation include six AK-47 rifles, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, five magazines, and a tear gas launcher.
The Army stated that further operations are underway to locate and apprehend the injured terrorists and their hideouts. Residents of Imo State have been urged to cooperate with the military by providing timely intelligence on the movements and locations of criminal elements.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment in Imo State during the Yuletide season. It called on members of IPOB/ESN and other criminal groups to surrender at the nearest military location, warning that failure to do so would result in severe consequences. The Army assured residents of its dedication to eliminating all forms of criminality and intimidation in the state.
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