The Nigerian Army has confirmed that two of its soldiers were killed and weapons carted away by suspected Biafra agitators.
In a statement shared on its verified social media platforms, the Army disclosed that the troops responded to a distress call during a routine patrol, reporting an IPOB/ESN attack on the Osina community. Upon arrival, the soldiers engaged the assailants in a fierce firefight, compelling them to retreat.
Tragically, two security agents were killed during the clash, and another remains missing. The attackers seized an AK-47 rifle and a tear gas launcher from the fallen officers. Despite the setback, the troops recovered the bodies of the deceased and continued their pursuit of the fleeing terrorists.
The operation led to another encounter at Nkwachi Community, where one IPOB/ESN operative was neutralized, and others fled into the forest. An AK-47 rifle with a loaded magazine was recovered during the skirmish. Further searches uncovered five more AK-47 rifles, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, and additional ammunition, totaling six rifles and a tear gas launcher.
The Army emphasized that its troops are actively pursuing the wounded operatives to dismantle their hideouts and ensure no haven for criminal activities.
The Brigade issued a stern warning to IPOB/ESN operatives and other criminal elements in Imo State to surrender or face the consequences. “We are determined to ensure Imo residents enjoy a peaceful Yuletide season free from fear and intimidation,” the statement read.
Residents were urged to cooperate with the military by providing timely intelligence on the movements and hideouts of terrorists. The Army assured the public of its commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.
Also, in a video seen by this reporter, policemen and a civilian were seen lying lifeless in a pool of blood.
A voice in the video who confirmed that the incident occurred on Friday lamented that it was a sad say in the community.
However, the police spokesperson in the Imo State, ASP Henry Okoye is yet to issue any statement about the latest attack.
Since 2021, the autopilot faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB), headed by the Simon Ekpa, has been linked to deadly attacks in Nigeria’s Southeast.
Simon Ekpa, the self-acclaimed leader of Biafra Government In Exile (BRIGE), who was arrested and incarcerated in Finland in November, has consistently boasted and claimed responsibility for the killing of many security operatives in Southeast Nigeria.
