Troops target IPOB hideouts, kills two in Anambra

Troops conducted an operate in the Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra, Udo Ka II” in the South-East region within the Orsumoghu Forest, which served as a hideout for separatist group Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network.

According to Lt. Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, the acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, the operation encountered resistance from IPOB fighters who employed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) against the military. Despite this, the operation resulted in the neutralization of two IPOB members, while others managed to escape with gunshot wounds.

Several items were recovered from the hideouts, including a pair of military boots, a military belt, five mobile phones, binoculars, leather hand gloves, and a police head warmer. Additionally, the troops discovered one locally-made handheld IED and four locally-made IED launchers known as “Ogbunigwe.”

In a related development, Sector 2 of “Operation Udo Ka II” arrested a suspected gunrunner, Francis Nwekire, aged 63, during a search-and-rescue mission in the Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Nwekire was apprehended in possession of 48 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition.

Furthermore, a suspected member of the Effium Militia in Ebonyi was arrested, leading the troops to their hideout. Among the items recovered were an AK-47 rifle, 20 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition, and an AK-47 magazine. Both suspects are currently in custody and will undergo further interrogation.