The military high command has strongly denounced the recent attack on its troops and other security personnel in Imo State. This disturbing incident occurred when a group of armed individuals, believed to be affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), carried out a lethal assault on Tuesday. The attackers targeted soldiers, police officers, and members of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps. Tragically, they not only killed some of these security personnel but also set their victims ablaze while they were inside two patrol vehicles. This horrifying event took place in the Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of the state.
Addressing this grave issue on Friday, the Director of Media Operations, Maj Gen Edward Buba, conveyed the military’s deep concern and disapproval. He provided details that shed light on the circumstances surrounding the attack. According to Maj Gen Buba, the troops and other security agents, who were part of Operation Search and Flush, had been responding to a distress call when they were ambushed by the assailants.
Despite the tragic loss of lives and the brazen attack on security personnel, Maj Gen Buba emphasized that the operations conducted by the troops also yielded positive results. Notably, these operations resulted in the successful rescue of kidnapped residents, among other accomplishments. The military remains committed to addressing security challenges in the region and ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens.
Buba said, “Sadly, a joint patrol team of Operation Search And Flush suffered a setback when responding to a distress call in Ehime Mbano LGA of Imo State. They were ambushed by members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed affiliated Eastern Security Network.
Meanwhile, troops operations lead to the rescue of kidnapped hostages and others.”
He noted that other operations conducted by troops led to the destruction of IPOB camps in Abia State.
He added, “Overall, as of 22 September 2023, the armed forces neutralized 52 terrorists and arrested the following: 53 criminals, and seven suspected oil thefts while rescuing 61 kidnapped hostages. Additionally, a total of seven terrorists comprising five adult males, and one adult female surrendered to troops.”
He said that troops of Operation Delta Safe denied oil thieves an estimated sum of N946,387,570.00 being the value of seizures.
