Troops recover rocket launchers as explosion rocks market in Imo

The Nigerian Army says there was an explosion at a market in Orsu LGA of Imo state, which resulted in the destruction of some shops.

Onyema Nwachukwu, army director of public relations, confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday.

According to him, during a general raid in the area on Tuesday, troops also killed two gunmen, identified as members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), an outfit of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

He said the gunmen were killed by troops of 34 artillery brigade, in a joint operation involving the navy, air force, and other security agencies, along Eke Ututu-Ihitte Nansa road in Orsu LGA.

Nwachukwu said the gunmen had taken a position with one of the rocket launchers when the troops found them.

“The fearless troops were unhurt, as improvised explosive devices (IED) deployed by the irredentists exploded at Eke Ututu market, destroying some of the shops in the market,” he said.

“Eke Ututu market has recently become a flash point as dissidents often ambush troops using explosives and firearms from within and around the market, while troops are on routine patrol.

“After the incident, the explosive ordnance device (EOD) team recovered several improvised explosive devices (IED) planted along the road, as well as locally fabricated rocket launchers.

“Troops will continue to ensure there is no safe haven for all criminal elements operating around Orsu and Orsumoghu general area.”