Unknown gunmen, on Wednesday, attacked an army checkpoint at Ekenobizi, a border community between Abia and Imo states in Umuopara, Umuahia South Local Government Area, killing two soldiers.
According to a military source, who pleaded anonymity, the attack occurred around 6:18 am, when gunmen arrived in a white Lexus (350/400) model and shot the soldiers dead.
But the exact number of attackers could not be confirmed as of the time of filing this report.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu of the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA, who confirmed the incident, said, “In the early hours of today, 13 November 2024, troops of the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA, deployed at a checkpoint along the Umuahia – Owerri Road in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State, came under attack by the irredentist group Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network.
“During the attack, the gallant troops were able to repel the assault, forcing the attackers to retreat in disarray with gunshot wounds, abandoning one Sienna and one Lexus Jeep used in the attack. However, in the ensuing firefight, two soldiers paid the supreme price.”
The JTF appealed to residents of the South East, particularly those in Abia State, for credible information to help track down the fleeing attackers and combat criminal elements in the region.
It also reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property in line with global best practices and the rules of engagement.
