BREAKING: Military declares manhunt for IPOB fighters over killing of 5 soldiers

The military high command has threatened to crack down on members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) who orchestrated the killing of troops in the southeastern region of the country while implementing a sit-at-home order.

During the incident, enraged IPOB militants set fire to vehicles and tricycles (also known as Keke Napep). South East governors and other stakeholders denounced the heinous act.

Speaking on Friday, the Director, Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, said the military would retaliate the attack on its “troops and bring overwhelming pressure against the terrorists terrorising the zone.”

Buba, a Major-General, also confirmed that no fewer than five personnel of the military attached to “Operation Udo Ka” paid supreme price at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Aba metropolis while protecting the citizens.

“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,” the senior military officer said.

The director explained that the lifeline of the terrorists are people in some areas, insisting that winning the war without the support of the people is almost impossible.

He said, “Troops of OPERATION UDO KA deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Area 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 mass attacked by the terrorists. The terrorists in 3 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 5 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.” (Daily Trust)