Troops from the 34 Artillery Brigade neutralised members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a series of operations on Friday, December 27, 2024.
Captain Joseph Baba Akubo, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, stated on Saturday that troops responded swiftly to a distress call regarding an IPOB/ESN attack on Osina Community in the Ideato North Local Government Area, countering the assailants as they returned from a routine patrol.
Akubo reported that the attackers, taken by surprise, were overwhelmed and forced to retreat in chaos.
He noted that two security personnel tragically lost their lives in the confrontation, while another remains missing. The assailants were able to seize an AK-47 rifle and a tear gas launcher.
“Despite these losses, the troops recovered the bodies of the fallen soldiers and launched an aggressive pursuit of the fleeing attackers.
“Further engagement took place at Nkwachi Community, where another intense firefight erupted. One IPOB/ESN fighter was neutralised, with others retreating into nearby forests, leaving behind an AK-47 rifle fitted with a fully loaded magazine,” Akubo stated.
He added that, undeterred, the troops penetrated Umalouma Forest, facing fierce resistance. Overwhelmed by superior firepower, the attackers abandoned their weapons and fled, sustaining severe injuries.
Five AK-47 rifles, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, two magazines, and one tear gas launcher were recovered from the forest.
He confirmed that operations are ongoing, with troops actively scouring the area to dismantle hideouts and apprehend the remaining fugitives.
The military has urged IPOB/ESN members and other criminal elements to surrender to authorities or face decisive repercussions.
Akubo assured the public of the Army’s commitment to ensuring a secure and peaceful Yuletide season for residents of Imo State.
He also encouraged citizens to assist military efforts by providing timely intelligence regarding criminal activities and hideouts.
“Together, we can rid the state of all forms of criminality and create a safer environment for everyone,” Akubo concluded.
