A violent clash between the Nigerian Army and suspected unknown gunmen erupted in the early hours of the morning at Mbata, Umuchima Village, located in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State. The conflict, reportedly a result of an operation by the army targeting the group’s hideout near the river bordering Abia and Imo states, has left residents in fear.
According to reports, the Nigerian Army mobilized over 15 Hilux vehicles and armored personnel carriers to the area at around 6 a.m. This swift military action aimed to dislodge the armed group believed to be camping in the region. Eyewitnesses reported intense gunfire, with heavy military presence blanketing the village and its surrounding areas.
Local sources indicate the group had been using the location as a base for undisclosed operations, triggering security concerns. The ensuing battle has disrupted normalcy in the village, with many residents fleeing their homes to avoid being caught in the crossfire.
While the Nigerian Army has yet to release an official statement, similar incidents in Abia State have raised alarms about the increasing volatility in the region. Earlier in the year, gunmen attacked checkpoints and police facilities in the state, resulting in casualties and heightened military activities.
This latest confrontation underscores the pressing security challenges faced by the Southeast region of Nigeria. As tensions persist, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize their safety during such escalations.
Peoplesmind
