TheCable

The Nigerian army says it has killed four gunmen of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

A statement by Onyema Nwachukwu, director of army public relations, said the suspects were killed at Nnobi junction, Idemili south LGA of Anambra, on Friday.

He said the operation was carried out by troops of 82 division of the army.

Nwachukwu said the gunmen were overpowered in “a fierce encounter with troops,” adding that the assailants had earlier attacked personnel of security agencies in Aguata LGA of the state.

He said the troops swiftly mobilised to the scene and embarked on pursuit of the criminals along Nnewi–Nnobi road.

According to him, troops made contact with the fleeing gunmen and engaged them in a gunfight, neutralising four of the criminals.

“The gallant troops also recovered two AK-47 Rifles, one GALIL Ace 5.56 x 45 Iwi Gun, one Avofeng Hand held radio and one Black Highlander jeep,” he said.

“Sadly, a personnel of one of the security agencies paid the supreme price.”

Nwachukwu said the troops also foiled another attack by IPOB/ESN gunmen at Umunze Checkpoint, in Orumba south LGA of the state.

He said the toops overwhelmed the attackers in the shootout that ensued, forcing them to abandon one pump action gun with nine cartridges, a Ford vehicle and four motorcycles.

He said the recent attacks are part of IPOB’s plan to instill fear in the public and sabotage the forthcoming Anambra governorship election.

“Members of the public are reassured that the Nigerian army, sister services and other security agencies will not relent in resolutely confronting all criminals intents against the citizenry and national interest,” he said.

“Law abiding citizens are enjoined to continue to go about their daily activities without any fear.

“They are also encouraged to report any unusual activity observed across Anambra State to the nearest security post.”