Unidentified gunmen have reportedly killed two soldiers from the Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA along the Umuahia-Owerri Road in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu of the Joint Task Force confirmed the attack in a statement to journalists on Wednesday, attributing the incident to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
According to the statement, “In the early hours of 13 November 2024, troops deployed at a checkpoint along the Umuahia-Owerri Road came under fire. The attack was executed by the irredentist group, IPOB, alongside the ESN.”
The military report detailed that during the confrontation, the troops managed to repel the attackers, who fled in disarray, leaving behind a Sienna and a Lexus Jeep used in the assault. Tragically, two soldiers paid the ultimate price in the ensuing firefight.
The Joint Task Force is appealing to the public in the South East, particularly residents of Abia State, for any reliable information that could lead to the capture of the fleeing attackers. “Please report any relevant information to Operation UDO KA by dialing 193 and selecting Option 2,” the statement urged.
The operation remains committed to its constitutional duty of safeguarding lives and property, adhering to global best practices outlined in its rules of engagement.
This attack is the second major assault on military checkpoints in Abia State this year, following a May incident in Aba that resulted in the deaths of five soldiers.
The earlier attack occurred at the Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in the Obingwa Local Government Area, where troops were deployed to maintain peace and protect citizens. Tragically, six civilians also lost their lives during that crossfire.
