Two Nigerian soldiers have been killed, and another is missing after a clash with suspected members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Osina, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State.
Joseph Akubo, spokesperson for the 34th Artillery Brigade, confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday. He explained that the clash happened on Friday when troops responded to a distress call about an attack by IPOB/ESN fighters during a routine patrol.
“The dissidents, caught off guard, retreated in disarray,” Akubo said. “Regrettably, two security agents were killed in action, while another remains missing. Their weapons, including an AK-47 rifle and a tear gas launcher, were seized by the terrorists.”
According to him, the bodies of the fallen soldiers were recovered as troops pursued the attackers. The suspected fighters were later intercepted in the Nkwachi community, leading to another intense gunfight.
“During this engagement, one of the dissidents was neutralised, while others fled into a nearby forest, unable to withstand the troops’ superior firepower. An AK-47 rifle with a fully loaded magazine was recovered during this operation,” Akubo added.
The soldiers recovered five AK-47 rifles, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, two magazines, and a tear gas launcher.
“We appeal to peace-loving residents of Imo State to support ongoing military operations by providing timely intelligence on the movements and hideouts of these criminals,” Akubo said.
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