Nigerian Army troops have successfully cleared suspected Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN) hideout at Ihiteukwa Community, in Orsu Local Council of Imo State, neutralising one of the suspects after an intense firefight at the weekend.
On overpowering the fighters, the gallant troops conducted a search in their hideout and recovered three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), one Toyota Highlander SUV, one Hilux vehicle, eight rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, six rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition and one locally fabricated single barrel gun.
Army spokesman, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, said: “Other items recovered from the terrorists’ hideout include a pair of proscribed Biafran uniform, one solar panel, one CCTV camera, 10 mobile phones, batteries, a bundle of proscribed Biafran currency, three solar street lights, three jungle hats, pairs of black boots and assorted charms.
“In a separate operation, conducted by troops at a suspected IPOB/ESN crossing point in Akawa Nneato general area of Umunneochi Local Council of Abia State, own troops engaged the terrorists in a firefight, resulting in the terrorists scampering in disarray into nearby bushes.
“On exploiting further after the shootout, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with 19 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, two empty magazines and one FN Rifle loaded with four rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition.
“In another development, troops operating in the Kawara general area of Birnin Gwari forest, in Kaduna State, have cleared and destroyed a series of terrorists’ camps in the area.
During the operation, troops recovered three motorbikes, one PKT gun link containing 246 rounds of 7.62mm by 39mm ammunition, one woodland camouflage and a pair of desert boots. Other items recovered include three magazine carriers and one Baofeng radio.
“Troops have dominated the general area, conducting further exploits in pursuit of the insurgents.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of citizens, and will continue to sustain operations to sanitise troubled areas to restore peace and stability in the country.”
