A group of Unidentified Gunmen launched a deadly assault on an army checkpoint in Ekenobizi, Umuopara, Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State, claiming the lives of two soldiers during the early morning hours of Wednesday.
An anonymous military source disclosed that the attack occured approximately around 6:18 am, involving gunmen who arrived in a white Lexus 350/400, with the number of perpetrators unknown.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu confirmed the incident in a press release, stating that Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA troops came under attack at a checkpoint in Umuahia South Local Government Area.
“At the early hours of today, November 13, 2024, troops of the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA deployed at a checkpoint along the Umuahia-Owerri Road in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State came under attack carried out by the irredentist group of the Indigenous People of Biafara and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network”.
“During the attack, the gallant troops were able to repel the attack forcing the irredentists to withdraw in disarray with gunshot wounds, abandoning one Sienna and one Lexus Jeep vehicles that were used for the attack. However, in the ensuing gun duel, two soldiers paid the supreme price.” he added.
The Lieutenant Colonel noted that the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA appealed to the “people of the South-East especially residents of Abia State with relevant, reliable and credible information that could help in apprehending the fleeing members of the irredentist group who committed this heinous crime and also help to annihilate the criminals in the region” not to hesitate in providing such.
The military reaffirmed its dedication to protecting lives and property, ensuring its operations align with constitutional requirements and international standards of engagement.
Eniola Jolaoso