A recent military operation conducted by the Nigerian Army in the Awomama community of Imo State has reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 13 civilians, including men, women, and children. Eyewitnesses claim that soldiers arrived in heavily armored vehicles and employed explosive devices on residential homes, causing widespread destruction and injuring many others.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that its troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, raided and cleared camps belonging to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), on July 20, 2024. The operation, part of the ongoing efforts to deter the activities of these groups in the region, resulted in the neutralization of two IPOB/ESN commanders and the recovery of various weapons and items.
In a separate operation, troops destroyed another IPOB/ESN camp, resulting in the fleeing of irredentists with gunshot wounds and the recovery of additional weapons and equipment. The Joint Task Force South East Operation UDOKA has appealed to the public for cooperation and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stating that it will continue to carry out its constitutional roles in line with global best practices.