In a tragic incident, gunmen believed to be affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have killed two soldiers at a military checkpoint on Umuahia-Owerri Road in the Ekeneobizi Community of Abia State.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unukhalu, spokesperson for the Joint Task Force for South East Operation UDO KA of the Nigerian Army, confirmed the details of the attack in a statement released on Wednesday in Umuahia.
The statement revealed that in the early hours of November 13, 2024, troops stationed at the checkpoint in Umuahia South Local Government Area came under assault. This attack was reportedly executed by the separatist group IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Despite the confrontation, the courageous soldiers managed to repel the attackers, forcing them to retreat in disarray, sustaining gunshot wounds, and abandoning two vehicles—a Sienna and a Lexus Jeep—used during the assault.
Regrettably, during the clash, two soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice.
The Joint Task Force is urging the residents of South East Nigeria, particularly those in Abia State, to provide any credible information that could assist in apprehending the fleeing assailants and help eliminate the threat posed by these criminals.
Citizens are encouraged to report relevant information to Operation UDO KA by calling *193* and selecting *Option 2* on their phones.
The statement concluded by emphasizing that the Army will continue to fulfill its constitutional duty of protecting lives and property, adhering to global best practices as outlined in the rules of engagement governing its operations.
