Six soldiers were killed on Monday at Izombe community, Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State by the so-called ‘Unknown Gunmen.’
Sources confirmed that the six soldiers were killed while leaving Izombe after conducting patrols within the town. Izombe, a major oil producing community in Imo State, has been an epicentre of killings and violence by gunmen.
Captain Joseph Akubo, Spokesperson of 34 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Obinze, Owerri, said on Monday that gunmen attacked its officers on patrol on Monday after the soldiers were dispatched to the oil-rich community to quell youth unrest and other crimes in the area.
He explained that on Saturday, several unidentified individuals attacked and killed a truck Dangote truck driver, causing the soldiers to intensify patrol.
“The soldiers were on routine patrol in the area when they came under attack by armed youths.
“Two days ago, a truck driver was killed; coupled with other criminal activities which had necessitated increased patrol.
“The soldiers were on normal patrol when they came under attack,” he said.
Akubo however said he had yet to confirm the casualty figure as the youths were still engaging the soldiers in fierce battle.
“I cannot tell you the casualty figure because the armed youths are still attacking our men who are taking cover in the buildings in the neighbourhood”, he said.