Four gunmen alleged to be members of Indigenous Peoples of Biafra/ Eastern Security Network, have been neutralized by troops of the Nigerian Army.

Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General, Onyema Nwachukwu said the gunmen who were killed in Ihiala town of Anambra State, were reportedly enforcing the illegally imposed sit-at-home order of the proscribed group. 

They reportedly shot sporadically in and around a filling station in Ihiala town on Wednesday February 9, before troops of the NA who received a distress call launched out to the location to restore normalcy.

The police said the firefight ensued and the gallant troops neutralised their leader, Ejike and three others. Items recovered from the gunmen during the encounter include one motorcycle, two pump action double-barrel guns, 12 live cartridges and substances suspected to be cannabis amongst others.

One combat vehicle conveying troops was, however, involved in an accident during the operation following a technical fault. An officer and a soldier paid the supreme price in the accident, while two others sustained injuries. The injured are currently responding to treatment at a military hospital.

Onyema added; 

“While we pray for the repose of the souls of deceased personnel, the general public is enjoined to continue to support the military and other security agencies through the provision of timely and accurate information that could enhance ongoing operations and ultimately, restore peace and stability in the region”