Four dead as military battles ESN fighters in Anambra

Four suspected fighters of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) controlled Eastern Security Network (ESN) fighters have been confirmed killed in gun duel with the military in Anambra state on Friday night.

In a statement signed by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu,  troops of 82 Division conducting Exercise GOLDEN DAWN neutralised ESN operatives in a gun battle Friday evening at Nnobi Junction in Idemili South Local Government.

Nwachukwu said the operation followed the attack on personnel of security agencies deployed at Ekwulobia Roundabout in Aguata Local Government Area.

Recalls that the some assailants ambushed, shot and killed two Department of State Services (DSS) officers.

Nwachukwu recalled that after the attack, troops swiftly mobilised to the scene and embarked on the pursuit of the criminals along Nnewi – Nnobi road.

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The soldiers made contact with the fleeing gunmen, engaged them and killed four. A number of weapons and items were recovered.

These include two AK-47 Rifles, one GALIL Ace 5.56 x 45 Iwi Gun, one Avofeng Handheld radio and one Black Highlander jeep.

Similarly, troops foiled another attack by IPOB ESN at Umunze checkpoint, in Orumba South Local Government Area.

The troops overwhelmed the secessionists in the shootout that ensued, forcing them to take to their heels.

The gang abandoned one Pump Action gun with nine cartridges, one dark blue Ford vehicle and four motorcycles.

The Nigerian Army condemned the attempt by IPOB ESN to instill fear “and sabotage forthcoming Anambra governorship election”.

“Members of the public are reassured that the Nigerian Army, sister services and other security agencies will not relent in confronting all criminals’ intentions against the citizenry and national interest”, Nwachukwu added.