Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Faruk Yahaya,
Army confirms killing 4 gunmen in Anambra
[From CHINEDU NWAFOR, Abakaliki]
Nigerian Army said its troops from 82 division conducting exercise Golden Dawn have killed four gunmen at Nnobi Junction, Idemili South Local Government Area in Anambra state.
The Army claimed the deceased suspects were members of Indigenous Peoples of Biafra/ Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN).
A statement made available to Journalists in Enugu on Saturday by Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director Army Public Relations said the gunmen were killed on Friday in a fierce accounted that took place at Nnobi junction.
The statement said the operation followed the gunmen’s attack on personnel of security agencies deployed at Ekwulobia Round About in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.
“Troops swiftly mobilised to the scene and subsequently embarked on pursuit of the criminals along Nnewi – Nnobi road.
“Troops made contact with the fleeing gunmen and engaged them in a fire fight, neutralizing four of the criminals.
“The gallant troops also recovered two AK-47 Rifles, one GALIL Ace 5.56 x 45 Iwi Gun, one Avofeng Hand held radio and one Black Highlander jeep. Sadly, a personnel of one of the security agencies paid the supreme price,” the statement explained.
The Army further added that troops also foiled another attack allegedly by IPOB/ESN gunmen at Umunze Checkpoint, in Orumba South Local Government Area.
According to the statement, the vigilant troops overwhelmed the attackers in the shootout that ensued, forcing them to take to their heels, abandoning, one Pump Action gun with nine cartridges, one dark blue Ford and four motorcycles, which the troops have recovered.
“The Nigerian Army notes that the recent attacks are part of proscribed IPOB/ESN plan to instil fear into the public and sabotage forthcoming Anambra State Governorship Election.
“Members of the public are reassured that the Nigerian Army, sister services and other security agencies will not relent in resolutely confronting all criminals intents against the citizenry and national interest. Law abiding citizens are enjoined to continue to go about their daily activities without any fear. They are also encouraged to report any unusual activity observed across Anambra State to the nearest security post,” the statement added.
