Golden Dawn: More casualties on both sides as federal troops battle IPOB in Onitsha

Bandits in Anambra attacking police checkpoints along the Okija-Onitsha expressway bumped into troops of Exercise Golden Dawn October 7, and the encounter ended up shootouts and deaths.

A statement titled ‘Troops’ neutralise three unknown gunmen in a shootout’, signed by the Army Director of Public Relations, Onyema Nwachukwu, on Saturday explained in details.

“The gallant troops engaged and overwhelmed the gunmen with superior firepower, forcing them to flee the scene. Troops however gave them a hot pursuit, and engaged the gunmen in a gun duel,” the statement read in part.

“The 3 gunmen, who drove in 2 Vehicles ( a Hilux and Hummer bus), eventually succumbed to troops’ effective firepower, while others fled with gunshot wounds.

“Troops also recovered one vehicle and 2 motorcycles, while conducting further exploitation of the general area for the fleeing terrorists.

“Unfortunately, a policeman paid the supreme price, in the line of duty, for his country.

“The Chief of Army Staff commands the troops for the feat and urges them to sustain the momentum against all criminal elements operating in the region. The COAS also sympathises with the family of the fallen hero and prays for the repose of his soul.”

The Army launched Golden Dawn recently to tackle the menace of secessionist IPOB and other criminals in the southeast.