The 82 Division of the Nigerian Army says troops of Sector 1, ‘Operation UDO KA’, on intelligence-led patrol mission to Imezi-Owa community in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State foiled an ambush attack.
The army said that the troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, foiled the attack by suspected terrorists of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Enugu.
Ayeni said that the patrol on May 6 was a follow-up to the trailing of terrorist collaborators in the community.
He said that while troops were advancing on foot to the community, they were attacked from a building, resulting in injuries to three soldiers.
According to him, in spite of the attack, troops maintained operational dominance, foiled the attack and secured the general area, while the injured soldiers were promptly evacuated.
The army spokesman said that the wounded soldiers are currently receiving treatment at a military medical facility.
“During the exchange of fire, Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) stored by the terrorists in the building used as their hideout; detonated, and triggered a fire outbreak that destroyed the hideout.
“Subsequent searches around the general area uncovered more IEDs, improvised hand grenades and shrine used for ritual activities.
“The shrine was thoroughly combed and destroyed. This is to prevent continued usage for criminal activities and to safeguard the community members.
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“One collaborator was apprehended during the exploitation around the general area. The detained suspect and recovered items have been handed over to the Nigerian Police, Ezeagu Division, for further investigation,” the army said.
Ayeni reassured the general public that ongoing operations are conducted with utmost professionalism and a firm commitment to protecting lives and property.
He called on law abiding citizens of Imezi-Owa community and its environs to remain calm, desist from harbouring criminal elements and cooperate with security agencies.
