In a decisive operation, the Nigerian Army has successfully neutralized six terrorists from the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The raid took place on Saturday in the Igboro Forest of Arochukwu Local Government Area, Abia State.
According to a statement released by the Nigerian Army on its X handle, the operation was part of an effort to apprehend the perpetrators of last week’s attack on troops in Aba.
The intelligence-led mission saw the troops encountering improvised explosive devices along their path, resulting in minor injuries to one soldier.
“The terrorists’ feeble firefight was adequately subdued with superior firepower, leading to the neutralization of six members of the criminal terrorist group while others escaped into adjoining bushes with varying degrees of gunshot wounds,” the statement read. Bloodstains along escape routes indicated the wounded terrorists’ attempts to flee.
During the raid, troops recovered an array of weaponry, including three locally fabricated rocket-propelled grenade launchers and two locally fabricated artillery guns with tripods and bombs.
Other items seized included dane guns, Biafran flags, and burnt Toyota Tundra and Hilux vehicles. The troops also destroyed all camps bearing different inscriptions within the area.
The Joint Task Force Operation UDO KA, responsible for the operation, called on the people of Abia to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible and timely information to help eliminate criminals in the state and across South East Nigeria.
This operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to combating terrorism and maintaining security in the region. The successful raid not only neutralizes a direct threat but also sends a strong message to other criminal elements operating in the area.