The Nigerian Army has insisted that the Eastern Security Network, a militia outfit of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is behind the several attacks in the south-east region.
Army spokesman, Onyema Nwachukwu stated this on Monday while briefing journalists on the ongoing operation in the south-east.
According to him, leader of a gang, Chukwunonso Iherue, who was one of the convicts who escaped when gunmen attacked Imo prison in April, was allegedly behind the recent violence in Izombe community of the state.
Speaking on the incident at Izombe, Nwachukwu said Iherue and his gang members were seen parading the community, flying the Biafra insignia on October 1, while threatening and instilling fear in the people.
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He said when military attempted to arrest him, he escaped with the help of some persons “until he was later neutralised when he engaged the troops with fire from his pistol in a frantic attempt to escape”.
“The group opened fire on own troops, killing two soldiers in the process,”
“In an effort to avoid civilian casualty and collateral damage in the community, troops tactically withdrew from the area.
“Unfortunately, the suspected IPOB members ran amok, setting ablaze houses and other property belonging to those perceived to be against them.
“A reinforcement team was deployed to Izombe and the security situation was immediately stabilised, while peace has since returned to the community.
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“It was, however, observed on arrival at the community that the criminal gang also burnt own troops’ van in addition to other public and private property.”
