By Pedro Ayobami
Kindly share this news
A brazen attack by gunmen on police and military checkpoints in Abia State was successfully repelled by soldiers from the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Barracks, 14 Brigade headquarters in Ohafia, attached to the 144 Battalion in Ukwa West local government area. The incident occurred near the Aro Ngwa axis of the Enugu-Aba-Port Harcourt Expressway, where the gunmen targeted police officers conducting a stop-and-search operation.
Quick Response Saves the Day
Thanks to the swift response of the 144 Battalion soldiers, the gunmen were prevented from setting the police patrol van on fire. Witnesses described the ensuing gun battle as a near-war scenario, with many commuters abandoning their vehicles to seek safety in nearby bushes to avoid stray bullets.
Coordinated Effort Thwarts Attack
Soldiers at the Aro Ngwa junction quickly alerted their colleagues at the Forward Operation Base (FOB) in Aba, the commercial hub of the state, for backup. This coordinated effort ultimately led to the overpowering of the gunmen, who were identified as members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) seeking weapons.
Gunmen Flee, Soldier Injured
Operating in a white Sienna Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), the IPOB members were outgunned by the military personnel and fled through the Owerrenta axis of the Owerri-Aba Expressway. Unfortunately, a soldier was wounded in the shootout and is currently receiving medical attention.
Efforts to Reach Authorities Unsuccessful
Attempts to contact Abia Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Maureen Chinaka were unsuccessful.
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in Abia State, where military personnel and law enforcement agencies continue to face threats from armed groups.
Kindly share this news!!!