Soldiers Killing: Troops Raid IPOB’s ESN Camp In Abia, Neutralises Six
Troops encountered Improvised Explosive Devices along the axis of advance, resulting in minor injuries to one soldier
Operation UDO KA troops have neutralized six terrorists during a successful raid on the camp of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Igboro Forest, Arochukwu Local Government of Abia State on Saturday.
According to the Nigerian Army’s X handle on Sunday, the operation was embarked upon to apprehend those behind the attack against its troops in Aba last week.
Army officials informed that during the intelligence-led operation, troops encountered Improvised Explosive Devices along the axis of advance, resulting in minor injuries to one soldier.
“The terrorists’ feeble firefight were adequately subdued with superior firepower that led to the neutralization of 6 members of the criminal terrorists group while others escaped into adjoining bushes with varying degrees of gunshot wounds as blood stains were seen along their escape routes.
“The gallant troops recovered three locally fabricated Rocket Propelled Grenade launchers, two locally fabricated Artillery guns with tripod and bombs.
“Other items recovered include dane guns, Biafran flags as well as Toyota Tundra and Hilux vehicles that were burnt insitu. Also all of their camps with different inscriptions were destroyed,”the statement read in part.
The army added that the Joint Task Force Operation UDO KA urged the people of Abia to keep cooperating with security agencies by providing accurate and timely information that will aid in eliminating the criminals in the state and the entire South East Nigeria.
Recall that six soldiers were killed last week in an attack by the IPOB/ESN.
The attack occurred at the Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Area, adjacent to the Aba metropolis. Troops from Operation Udoka were deployed to maintain peace in the area and protect the citizens.
The attackers were said to have come in three-tinted Toyota Prado SUVs and others, from built-up areas surrounding the checkpoint.
Six civilians were reportedly killed in the crossfire that ensued between the terrorists and the troops.
Following the killing of the soldiers, the military, in a statement by its spokesperson Major General Edward Buba, vowed to retaliate brutally against the attack on its troops.
“The armed forces mourn the death of these troops as each and every soldier lost in battle is a terrible loss. Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing concerning the attack.
“Overall, it must be reiterated that the lifeline of the terrorist is the people and this situation is no exemption. Winning the war without the support of the people is close to impossible. The IPOB capitalised on this to perpetrate attacks on the troops. The situation leaves more to be desired.
“Accordingly, it is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops. The military would be fierce in its response. We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat,” the statement read in part.
Terrorists under the IPOB/ESN banner carried out the attack on soldiers while enforcing a sit-at-home order across the South-East region.
