On Friday, December 27, 2024, troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade conducted a successful operation against members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Osina, Ideato North Local Government Area, Imo State.
First Engagement: Osina Community
Acting on a distress call about an attack on Osina Community, troops engaged the attackers with overwhelming firepower during their routine patrol. The terrorists, caught off guard, fled in disarray. Unfortunately, two security personnel were killed, and one remains missing. The terrorists seized an AK-47 rifle and a tear gas launcher during the initial encounter.
Pursuit and Second Engagement: Nkwachi Community
The troops pursued the fleeing terrorists and re-engaged them at Nkwachi Community. Another intense firefight led to the neutralization of one terrorist, while others escaped into a nearby forest. An AK-47 rifle with a fully loaded magazine was recovered.
Final Push: Umalouma Forest
Determined to dismantle the threat, troops advanced into Umalouma Forest. A fierce battle ensued, and the dissidents, unable to withstand the superior firepower, abandoned their weapons and fled with severe injuries. Recovered items included:
- Five AK-47 rifles
- One Fabrique Nationale rifle
- Two magazines
- One tear gas launcher
Continued Operations
Troops are intensifying efforts to track the injured terrorists and eliminate their hideouts. The military has urged IPOB/ESN members to surrender or face decisive action.
A Call for Cooperation
Captain Joseph Baba Akubo, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, emphasized the army’s commitment to securing Imo State during the Yuletide season. He called on peace-loving residents to provide intelligence on the movements and hideouts of criminal elements to ensure lasting peace.
Together, with the support of local communities, the Nigerian Army aims to rid Imo State of all forms of criminality.
For more updates on security operations, visit AJU2kobo.com.
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