Two soldiers were killed early Wednesday morning when gunmen attacked a military checkpoint in Ekenobizi, a border community between Abia and Imo states, located in the Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia.
The attack occurred around 6:18 am when a group of gunmen, traveling in a white Lexus vehicle, ambushed troops stationed at a checkpoint along the Umuahia-Owerri road.
The attackers were reportedly repelled after a fierce firefight, although two soldiers lost their lives in the clash.
A military source confirmed that the attackers, suspected to be linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network, targeted the checkpoint in the early hours of 13 November 2024.
The attackers fled the scene after sustaining injuries, leaving behind two vehicles.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Unuakhalu of the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA confirmed the attack in a press release.
Unuakhalu 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.”
He appealed to residents for credible information to assist in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators of the deadly assault.
The Joint Task Force has pledged to continue its operations in the region, emphasizing its commitment to upholding global standards of engagement while protecting the safety of civilians and security personnel alike.
