Troops of Operation UDO KA have eliminated six terrorists in a successful raid on the camp of the proscribed 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.
The Nigerian Army revealed this through its X handle on Sunday, stating that the operation aimed to apprehend the perpetrators of the attack on its troops in Aba last week.
During the intelligence-led operation, troops encountered Improvised Explosive Devices along their path of advancement, resulting in one soldier sustaining minor injuries from the fragments.
“The terrorists’ feeble firefight was effectively subdued with superior firepower, leading to the neutralization of six members of the criminal terrorists group, while others escaped into adjoining bushes with varying degrees of gunshot wounds, evidenced by blood stains 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 burnt Toyota Tundra and Hilux vehicles. Additionally, all of their camps with different inscriptions were destroyed,” the statement read.
The Joint Task Force Operation UDO KA urged the people of Abia to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible and timely information to help eradicate 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 Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Area adjoining Aba metropolis, where troops of Operation Udoka were stationed to maintain peace and protect citizens.
The assailants, reportedly arriving in three-tinted Toyota Prado SUVs and others, initiated the attack from built-up areas surrounding the checkpoint, resulting in the deaths of six civilians in the crossfire.
Following the soldiers’ killing, the Military, through its spokesperson, Major General Edward Buba, vowed to retaliate against the attack on its troops vigorously.
“The armed forces mourn the death of these troops as each and every soldier lost in battle is a terrible loss. Investigations are ongoing concerning the attack.
“Winning the war without the support of the people is close to impossible. The IPOB capitalized on this to perpetrate attacks on the troops. Accordingly, it is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops,” the statement emphasized.
The IPOB/ESN terrorists launched the attack on the soldiers while enforcing a sit-at-home order across the South-East.
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