Troops neutralise notorious IPOB commander, 2 others
A joint operation involving the Nigerian Army alongside various security agencies resulted in the elimination of a notorious IPOB/ESN Commander, identified as Tochukwu, also known as Ojoto, as well as two accomplices during a clash at their camp in Ihiteukwa, Imo.
The Nigerian Army X Handle shared the details of the operation on Tuesday, highlighting the collaboration with the Nigeria Police, DSS, and NSCDC in the successful clearance operation spanning Udda, Ihiteukwa, and Orsumoghu areas bordering Orsu and Ihiala LGAs of Imo and Anambra states.
Encountering members of IPOB and ESN utilizing the region as a hideout, the troops engaged in a confrontation marked by guerrilla tactics, including the deployment of IEDs and booby traps along the roads by the insurgents.
Despite facing these challenges, the troops held their ground and swiftly responded with tactical precision, ultimately neutralizing Tochukwu and two other individuals.
“The operation led to the recovery of firearms, communication devices, narcotics, and personal effects of the terrorists. Notably, two undetonated IEDs, six detonated IEDs and bomb-making materials were captured by the gallant troops.
“The operation has dealt a significant blow to the terrorists’ networks in the region.
“The IEDs and bomb-making materials were safely destroyed,” it said.
Army said that its troops had in another operation in Cross River, engaged in a fierce gun battle with a group of suspected kidnappers in the remote community of Akparanbong in Ikom Local Government Area.
It said that the troops, while on routine patrol stormed the kidnappers’ hideout, leading to a gun battle that forced the kidnappers to retreat hastily leaving behind two AK 47 Rifles, six Magazines, variety of ammunition and three mobile phones.
According to the army, all the items have been recovered by the troops.
