Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralized four members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Anambra State.
The Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, said in a statement on Wednesday that the IPOB/ESN members led by one Ejike, who were enforcing a sit-at-home order, fired sporadically around a filling station in Ihiala town.
On receiving a distress call, the Army said it mobilized its troops to the area, who engaged the men in a firefight.
The Ejike and three others were neutralized while items including one motorcycle, two pump action double-barrel guns, 12 live cartridges and substances suspected to be cannabis, amongst others, were recovered from them.
Nwachukwu said, “On receipt of a distress call, troops of the NA launched out to the location to restore normalcy. On intercepting the dissidents, a firefight ensued and the gallant troops neutralized their leader, Ejike, and three others.
“Items recovered from the gunmen during the encounter include one motorcycle, two pump action double-barrel guns, 12 live cartridges and substances suspected to be cannabis amongst others.
“Sadly, one combat vehicle conveying troops was involved in an accident during the operation following a technical fault. One gallant officer and a soldier paid the supreme price in the accident, while two sustained injuries. The injured are currently responding to treatment at a military hospital.
“While we pray for the repose of the souls of deceased personnel, the general public are enjoined to continue to support the military and other security agencies through the provision of timely and accurate information that could enhance ongoing operations and ultimately, restore peace and stability in the region.”