Two killed as troops raid ‘IPOB hideout’ in Anambra

Troops of Operation Udo Ka II have killed two suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Anambra state.

The suspected separatists were killed during a raid of the group’s hideout on Wednesday in Orsumoghu Forest in Ihiala LGA of Anambra.

Jonah Unuakhalu, deputy director of public relations, 82 division of the Nigerian Army, said other members of the group escaped with gunshot wounds.

He said soldiers recovered one locally-made handheld IED and four locally-made IED launchers, popularly known as Ogbunigwe, from the raided camp.

“The troops were able to dislodge the group and neutralised two of them, while others escaped with gunshot wounds,” Unuakhalu said on Saturday.

“Items recovered from the camps included a pair of military boots, one military belt, five mobile phones, binoculars, leather hand gloves and a police head warmer.

“Others were one locally-made handheld IED and four locally-made IED launchers (Ogbunigwe).”

In a similar operation, troops of sector two of Operation Udo Ka II arrested a suspected gunrunner while on a search-and-rescue mission at Effium in Ohaukwu LGA of Ebonyi.

Francis Nwekire, a 63-year-old, was arrested in his house with 48 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition on Thursday.

“Additionally, a suspected Effium Militia in Ebonyi was arrested, and he led troops to their hideout,” Unuakhalu said.

“Items recovered from the hideout were one AK 47 rifle, 20 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition and one AK 47 magazine.

“Both suspects are presently in troops’ custody for further interrogation.”

Unuakhalu said soldiers also killed a suspected IPOB member who was a local gun fabricator nicknamed “Packing Store” in the Agwa community of Imo state.

Items recovered during the operation were one pump-action rifle, one locally-made pistol, and a head warmer with IPOB inscription.