The Imo State Police Command has stated that it has foiled an attack by terrorists in the state, News About Nigeria reports.
The Command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
He noted that it was a significant operational success in the fight against crime in the state.
He stated that the operation was carried out by the command’s Counter-Terrorism Unit during a routine patrol, adding that it was an attack by suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists.
He also confirmed that no casualties or injuries were recorded among the operatives.
Following the incident, officers recovered an AK-47 rifle, 15 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, an IPOB/ESN flag, and the abandoned vehicle.
According to him, a thorough search of nearby bushes is ongoing to locate the remaining suspects.
He stated, “Yesterday, operatives from the command’s counter-terrorism unit repelled an attack by suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists during a routine patrol along the Owerri/Aba Road, near Owerri Airport.
The attackers, numbering about ten and travelling in two vehicles, launched a violent assault but were effectively countered by the unit, demonstrating notable bravery. In the ensuing gun battle, one suspect was neutralised, while the others fled with gunshot injuries, abandoning their operational vehicle, an ash-coloured Mercedes Jeep with Lagos State registration number AAA 101 GR.”
The state commissioner of police, Aboki Danjuma, urged the public, especially medical practitioners, to report any individuals seen with or seeking treatment for gunshot injuries to the nearest police station.
“The command remains committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and will continue to address any threats to public peace in the state,” the statement added.
