Troops of 13 Brigade of Nigerian Army have engaged some unknown gunmen in a fierce exchange of gunfire in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday, resulted in the death of four of the gunmen, while one soldier was wounded and evacuated to a hospital.
The soldiers were returning from Ochon and Alesi communities when their movement was obstructed by unidentified armed men who launched a coordinated ambush attack.
According to the Army, the confrontation quickly escalated into an intense firefight between the troops and the gunmen.
A statement by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade, Lt. Yemi Sokoya, confirmed the development.
“During efforts to clear the obstruction, the soldiers came under a coordinated ambush by unknown gunmen, leading to a fierce exchange of fire,” Sokoya said.
He explained that following a contact report from troops on the ground, reinforcements from the 245 Battalion were immediately deployed with armoured and tactical support vehicles to support the 13 Brigade troops.
The swift reinforcement, he said, enabled the soldiers to repel the attack and regain control of the area.
“During the engagement, troops neutralised four of the armed attackers, while several others escaped,” Sokoya added.
He disclosed that one soldier sustained injuries during the exchange and was evacuated to Jennifer Hospital in Ochon, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The Army spokesman further stated that troops had commenced cordon-and-search operations in suspected communities linked to the attackers to track down fleeing suspects and forestall further security breaches.
Meanwhile, the Commander of 13 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Patrick Alimikhena, commended the bravery and professionalism of the troops in confronting the attackers.
He reassured residents of Cross River State of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and maintaining peace within its area of responsibility.
Four killed as soldiers, unknown gunmen clash in Cross River
