Six suspected members of a secessionist group have been killed during a gun battle with a joint security team in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State.
A security operative was also killed in the operation, while another sustained injuries after an explosive device suspected to have been planted in the area detonated.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, saying the operation was carried out as part of efforts to dismantle criminal networks and violent groups operating in the state.
According to Ikenga, the operation was conducted on Saturday by personnel from the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu; Department of State Services; 302 Artillery Regiment, Onitsha; Nigerian Navy personnel from Ogbaru; and Agunachamba community operatives.
He said the security team, acting on credible intelligence, trekked for about four hours through difficult terrain and dense palm forest before reaching a suspected criminal camp.
The suspects reportedly opened fire after sighting the operatives, resulting in a prolonged exchange of gunfire.
Ikenga said six members of the armed group were neutralised, while others escaped, with some believed to have sustained gunshot injuries.
The operatives reportedly recovered two pump-action guns and charms from the camps, while structures believed to be associated with the group were dismantled.
However, the operation suffered a setback when an explosive device detonated, killing one security operative and injuring another. The injured operative was taken to a hospital for treatment.
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The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji, commended the security personnel and community operatives for their courage and professionalism despite the difficult terrain.
Oji also condoled with the family and colleagues of the deceased operative and wished the injured officer a speedy recovery.
He assured residents that security agencies would continue intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal camps, recovering illegal weapons and preventing violent groups from establishing bases across the state.
The command also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security.
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