By Asuquo Cletus Felix
The Nigerian Army on Sunday said it troops deployed for counter terrosim operations in Abia State on Saturday, 20th July 2024, destroyed a terrorist camp belonging to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in the Ezere Forest of Umuawa Aku, Okigwe Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State.
Acting on actionable intelligence regarding the harassment and intimidation of local residents by the terrorist elements, the troops, it was gathered swiftly mobilized to neutralize the threat, in Akawa Nnneato and Lomara communities in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, resulting in the capturing of a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) and other assorted items.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Army Public Relations Officer Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, the operation Nwachukwu noted underscores the Nigerian Army’s undeterred commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region.
He maintained that the successful operation has not only served to disrupt the activities of the terrorist group, but also send a strong message on the army’s resolve to restore and maintain order in the affected areas.
“Troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for counter terrorism operations in Abia State in a major operation on Saturday 20 July 2024, successfully dislodged and destroyed a terrorist camp belonging to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in the Ezere Forest of Umuawa Aku, Okigwe Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State. The operation, which also extended into Akawa Nnneato and Lomara communities in Umunneochi LGA of Abia State, resulted in the capture of a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) and other assorted items.
“The troops acting on actionable intelligence regarding the harassment and intimidation of local residents by the terrorist elements, swiftly mobilized to neutralize the threat. On arrival, troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce shootout, dislodging them from their camp. Troops exploited their success as they gave the fleeing terrorists a hot pursuit, compelling them to abandon a significant cache of arms, including one GPMG, assorted rounds of ammunition, two motorcycles, and two communication radios.
“The operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s undeterred commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region. Troops will be decisive in dismantling any threat to ensure the safety of the communities.
“This significant operation serves as a testament to the army’s dedication to protecting civilians and combating terrorism. The successful operation has not only served to disrupt the activities of the terrorist group but also sends a strong message on the army’s resolve to restore and maintain order in the affected areas.”
