TROOPS NEUTRALIZE ESN TERRORISTS, RECOVER WEAPONS IN IMO STATE
Troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade on Friday, December 27, 2024, neutralized members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a series of operations in Osina, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State.
The operation was in response to a distress call about an IPOB/ESN attack on the Osina community. The troops, who were returning from routine patrols, swiftly engaged the terrorists with overwhelming firepower. The assailants, caught off guard, retreated in disarray. Tragically, two security agents lost their lives in the encounter, and another remains missing. The terrorists seized an AK-47 rifle and a tear gas launcher belonging to the fallen security personnel. The troops recovered the bodies of the deceased and launched a pursuit of the fleeing attackers.
The troops re-engaged the terrorists at Nkwachi Community, resulting in an intense firefight. One dissident was neutralized, while others fled into a nearby forest. An AK-47 rifle with a fully loaded magazine was recovered during the exchange.
Determined to dismantle the criminals' network, the troops pressed into Umalouma Forest, where another fierce confrontation ensued. Overwhelmed by superior firepower, the terrorists abandoned their weapons and escaped into the dense forest with severe injuries. The following items were recovered:
Five AK-47 rifles
One Fabrique Nationale rifle
Two magazines
One tear gas launcher
The military continues its operations in the area, tracking the injured terrorists and dismantling their hideouts. The 34 Artillery Brigade has called on members of IPOB/ESN and other criminal groups to surrender at the nearest military location or face decisive action.
The Brigade remains committed to ensuring a peaceful and secure Yuletide season for the people of Imo State. Residents are urged to support ongoing military operations by providing timely intelligence on the movements and hideouts of these criminal elements. Together, we can eliminate all forms of criminality in the state.
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