Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, have foiled an ambush attack by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Imezi-Owa community, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The 82 Division of the Nigerian Army disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday in Enugu by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni.
Ayeni said the troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, were on an intelligence-led patrol on May 6, following efforts to track suspected terrorist collaborators in the community.
He said the troops came under attack from a building while advancing on foot into the community, leaving three soldiers injured.
According to him, the troops maintained operational superiority, repelled the attack and secured the area despite the ambush.
“The injured personnel were promptly evacuated and are currently receiving treatment at a military medical facility,” he said.
Ayeni added that during the exchange of fire, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) stored in the building used as a hideout by the suspected terrorists detonated, causing a fire outbreak that destroyed the structure.
He said subsequent searches in the area led to the recovery of additional IEDs, improvised hand grenades and a shrine allegedly used for ritual activities.
“The shrine was thoroughly combed and destroyed to prevent its continued use for criminal activities and to safeguard community members,” he said.
The spokesman said one suspected collaborator was arrested during the operation, adding that the suspect and recovered items had been handed over to the Nigerian Police, Ezeagu Division, for further investigation.
Ayeni reassured residents that troops conducting ongoing operations remained committed to professionalism and the protection of lives and property.
He urged law-abiding residents of Imezi-Owa and neighbouring communities to remain calm, avoid harbouring criminal elements and cooperate with security agencies.
He also warned members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN and their sympathisers to desist from illegal activities or face the consequences.
“Security forces remain resolute in their determination to build peace in the region and will continue to dismantle criminal networks and deny terrorists freedom of action,” he added.