UNKNOWN gunmen have allegedly killed two soldiers from the Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA along the Umuahia – Owerri Road in the Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu of the Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA confirmed the incident in a statement today.
The military has attributed the attack to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The statement stated that “In the early hours of today, 13 November 2024, troops from the Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA stationed at a checkpoint along the Umuahia – Owerri Road in Umuahia South Local Government Area came under fire.
“This assault was executed by the separatist group Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The statement further noted, “During the confrontation, the brave troops managed to repel the attackers, forcing them to retreat in disarray, leaving behind one Sienna and one Lexus Jeep used during the assault. Unfortunately, two soldiers lost their lives in the exchange of gunfire.
“The Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA is urging the residents of the South-East, particularly those in Abia State, to provide any relevant, reliable, and credible information that could assist in capturing the fleeing members of the separatist group responsible for this heinous act and help eliminate criminal activity in the region.
“Any pertinent information can be reported to Operation UDO KA by calling 193 and selecting Option 2 on your phone.
“The Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA remains committed to fulfilling its constitutional duty of protecting lives and property, adhering to global best practices as outlined in the rules of engagement governing its operations.”
This marks the second significant attack on a military checkpoint in Abia State since an incident in May that resulted in the deaths of five soldiers in Aba.
The military also attributed the Aba attack to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
That assault occurred at the Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in the Obingwa Local Government Area, adjacent to the Aba metropolis, where troops from Operation Udoka were deployed to maintain peace and protect citizens.
The attackers surprised the troops by arriving in three tinted Toyota Prado SUVs and other vehicles from the surrounding built-up areas.
The military confirmed that six civilians were also killed in the crossfire that followed the attack.
