Combined troops kill suspected ESN/IPOB fighters, apprehend others

A joint operation involving the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the Police, and the Department of State Services resulted in the elimination of two individuals suspected to be members of IPOB/ESN (Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network) and the apprehension of five additional individuals.

The operation took place on Monday, July 17, 2023, in the general vicinity of Fuji Junction in Asaba, Delta State. The encounter was marked by intense confrontation between the security forces and the suspects.

Spokesman of the army, Brig. General Onyema Nwachukwu said the encounter followed distress calls that the community was under attack by the group, to which the combined troops swiftly responded. “The terrorists succumbed to the overwhelming fire power of the troops, after two of their members fell in the fire fight that ensued, while the survivors fled to their hideout around Okpanam river.

“The gallant troops in pursuit of the fleeing criminal elements, successfully trailed them to their enclave in a house around Okpanam river, where they were nabbed.

“The troops also recovered one AK 47 Rifle, one Pump Action Semi-Automatic Rifle, 15 Live Cartridges, one AK 47 Rifle Magazine and a Baofeng Radio Receiver.

We implore members of the public to continue to cooperate with the security agencies by providing actionable information to support their operations to tackle security challenges.

“The Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja has lauded the combined troops for their effort and urged them to sustain the synergy, as they restore peace and tranquillity in the region.”