By Blessing Fali
Security forces in Anambra State have killed six suspected members of an armed secessionist group during a gun battle in Ogbaru Local Government Area.
The operation was carried out on Saturday by a joint team comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and community-based security operatives.
According to the Anambra State Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the team acted on credible intelligence and trekked for about four hours through difficult terrain and dense palm forest before reaching a suspected criminal camp.
He said the suspects opened fire when they sighted the security personnel, leading to a prolonged exchange of gunfire.
At the end of the encounter, six suspected members of the group were killed, while others escaped with possible gunshot injuries.
The security forces recovered two pump-action guns and charms from the camps, which were subsequently dismantled.
However, the operation came at a cost as one security operative was killed and another injured after an explosive device believed to have been planted in the area detonated.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji, commended the security personnel and community operatives for their courage and professionalism.
He also condoled with the family and colleagues of the deceased operative and wished the injured officer a quick recovery.
The police assured residents that intelligence-led operations would continue across the state to dismantle criminal camps, recover illegal weapons and prevent violent groups from establishing operational bases.
The command also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible information that could help prevent further attacks.
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