Four notorious members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/ Eastern Security Network (ESN) have been killed by soldiers on internal security operations in Ihiala town, Anambra State, the Nigerian Army headquarters has said.
The suspects who were said to have been armed and enforcing the illegally imposed sit-at-home order fired sporadically in and around a filling station in Ihiala town.
The Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema, who made this known in a statement, however, said that one officer and a soldier lost their lives during the incident while two others sustained injuries. He said the injured personnel are currently on admission in a military hospital and responding to treatment.
“Troops of Nigerian Army (NA)have neutralised four Indigenous Peoples of Biafra/ Eastern Security Network gunmen at Ihiala town in Anambra State. The gunmen who were out enforcing the illegally imposed sit-at-home order fired sporadically in and around a filling station in Ihiala town. On receipt of a distress call, troops of the NA launched out to the location to restore normalcy. On intercepting the dissidents, a firefight ensued and the gallant troops neutralised their leader, Ejike and three others.
“Items recovered from the gunmen during the encounter include one motorcycle, two pump action double-barrel guns, 12 live cartridges and substances suspected to be cannabis amongst others.
“Sadly, one combat vehicle conveying troops was involved in an accident during the operation following a technical fault. One gallant officer and a soldier paid the supreme price in the accident, while two sustained injuries. The injured are currently responding to treatment at a military hospital.
“While we pray for the repose of the souls of deceased personnel, the general public are enjoined to continue to support the military and other security agencies through the provision of timely and accurate information that could enhance ongoing operations and ultimately, restore peace and stability in the region.”
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