Troops have raided suspected IPOB/ESN strongholds in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, recovering weapons, motorcycles and materials suspected to be used for making improvised explosive devices.
The operation was carried out on Saturday, August 22, in Obene and Abator villages within the Ochuche and Umunankwo communities. The Nigerian Army said troops worked with other security agencies, including the DSS and local vigilante operatives.
According to the reports, the suspected fighters opened fire after sighting the advancing troops but later fled into the surrounding terrain. The Army said one suspected member of the group was killed during the pursuit, while others escaped with the body of another person believed to have been killed in the operation.
Troops recovered two pump-action guns, two motorcycles, suspected IED-making materials and other items after searching the area. The Army said the recovery would weaken the group’s ability to make explosive devices for attacks on security personnel, infrastructure and civilians.
Daily Post reported that one soldier, identified as Private Danladi Zakariya, died after stepping on an explosive device while troops were returning from the operation. His remains were taken to St. Charles Borromeo Hospital mortuary in Onitsha.
Sources: Daily Post, Vanguard
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