The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the killing of five of its soldiers allegedly by terrorists operating as members of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Abia State, The SUN reports.
The military has vowed to retaliate, asserting that it would be fierce in its response.
The soldiers were killed at a checkpoint at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Areas adjourning Aba metropolis in Abia State on Thursday, according to a statement issued by the Director Defence Media Operations (DMO), Major General Edward Buba.
The statement reads: “Troops of OP UDO KA deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Areas adjourning Aba metropolis in Abia State were attacked and sadly killed by terrorists of IPOB/ ESN. The troops deployed to enforce peace in the area and protect the citizens were attacked by the terrorists in three tinted Prado Toyota SUVs and others from built-up areas surrounding the checkpoint sprang a surprise attack on the checkpoint.
“The attack sadly took the lives of five personnel of the armed forces killed in action.
The armed forces mourn the death of these troops as each and every soldier lost in battle is a terrible loss. Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing concerning the attack.
“Overall, it must be reiterated that the lifeline of the terrorists is the people and this situation is no exemption. Winning the war without the support of the people is close to impossible. The IPOB capitalised on this to perpetrate attacks on the troops. The situation leaves more to be desired.
“Accordingly, it is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops. The military would be fierce in its response. We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat.”
