The Nigerian Army says it has eliminated Eastern Security Network (ESN) fighters who are controlled by the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) in Anambra state.
Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, confirmed this in a statement released on Saturday.
Troops of 82 Division conducting Exercise GOLDEN DAWN neutralised ESN operatives in a gun fight on Friday evening at Nnobi Junction in Idemili South Local Government.
Nwachukwu said the operation followed the attack on personnel of security agencies deployed at Ekwulobia Roundabout in Aguata Local Government Area.
The assailants had ambushed, shot and killed two Department of State Services (DSS) officers.
Nwachukwu recalled that after the attack, troops swiftly mobilised to the scene and embarked on the pursuit of the criminals along Nnewi – Nnobi road.
The soldiers made contact with the fleeing gunmen, engaged them and killed four. A number of weapons and items were recovered.
These include two AK-47 Rifles, one GALIL Ace 5.56 x 45 Iwi Gun, one Avofeng Handheld radio and one Black Highlander jeep.
Similarly, troops foiled another attack by IPOB ESN at Umunze checkpoint, in Orumba South Local Government Area.
The troops overwhelmed the secessionists in the shootout that ensued, forcing them to take to their heels.
The gang abandoned one Pump Action gun with nine cartridges, one dark blue Ford vehicle and four motorcycles.
The Nigerian Army condemned the attempt by IPOB ESN to instil fear “and sabotage forthcoming Anambra governorship election”.
“Members of the public are reassured that the Nigerian Army, sister services and other security agencies will not relent in confronting all criminals intents against the citizenry and national interest”, Nwachukwu added.
