The Nigerian Army said troops of 34 Brigade Obinze killed four suspected members of IPOB during a gun duel in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State.
The Army said the suspected IPOB members opened fire on the troops who were on patrol in the area, adding that the troops overpowered them. A statement on Monday by the Director of Army Public Relations, Brig General Onyema Nwachukwu, read in part, “Troops of 34 Brigade Obinze have neutralised four members of IPOB and its armed wing, Eastern Security Network, in a fierce encounter that ensued at Amaifeke and Ihioma in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State.
“The terrorists were taken out yesterday (Monday), May 16, 2022, while shooting sporadically, threatening lives and property of innocent citizens.
“The irate dissidents opened fire on sighting the patrol team, who were out to ensure safety and security of lives and property of citizens. The vigilant troops engaged the criminals and neutralised four of them, while others succumbed to the superior fire power of the troops and escaped from the scene.
“Items recovered from the encounter include one pump action shotgun, 10 live cartridges, one Hilux truck, mobile handsets and charms.”