Tension is running high in Mbata, Umuchima Village, located in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State, following a fierce clash between soldiers and suspected gunmen hiding in the surrounding bushes.
According to military sources, a large-scale operation was launched to dislodge the gunmen, with over 15 Hilux trucks and armored vehicles deployed to search the area.
The gunmen are believed to have established a base near a river along the Abia/Imo state border in Mbaise.
“The operation began early in the morning, and we have successfully secured key junctions leading to and from the village. We are engaging the gunmen in the surrounding forests,” a military source stated.
The ongoing clash has caused widespread fear among local residents, many of whom have fled to safer areas to avoid being caught in the crossfire.
Efforts to reach Lt. Innocent Omale, the Public Relations Officer for the 14 Brigade in Ohafia, for an official statement have been unsuccessful.
As of now, security operations continue in the area, with authorities working to stabilize the situation and restore peace to the community.
