Three suspected terrorists have been killed by operatives of the Anambra State government-owned security outfit, Agunechemba, attached to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Aguata in the Isuofia-Igboukwu axis of the state.
Media Publicity Secretary of the outfit, Comrade Nweke Nweke, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, noting that several other members of the gang escaped with gunshot wounds.
According to him, the suspects, who had allegedly been terrorizing communities in the area, were neutralized during a fierce gun battle with security operatives.
Items recovered from the criminals included a Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG), AK-47 rifles, other dangerous weapons, the gang’s operational white Hilux van, charms, handbags and other incriminating materials.
Nweke revealed that the gang had been disguising themselves in federal government security uniforms and was linked to previous attacks, including an assault on the convoy of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s Chief of Staff which resulted in casualties.
He said: “Following credible intelligence, our operatives, working closely with the police, tracked the gang to the Isuofia-Igboukwu area where they were robbing innocent residents.
“As security personnel closed in on them, the suspects attempted to escape. Agunechemba and police operatives swiftly sealed all exit routes within Aguata Local Government Area.
“Realizing they were trapped, the criminals opened fire on our men. In the ensuing exchange, three notorious gang members were neutralized, while no casualty was recorded among Agunechemba operatives.
“Our intelligence indicates that the gang used a white Hilux van to carry out kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across Anambra South Senatorial District and beyond.”
Reacting to the operation, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Community Security, Prince Ken Emekayi; Chairman of the Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Internal Security, Engr. Sylvester Ofodeme; and Head of Operations of Agunechemba, Chief Chinenye Ihenko, described the successful operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against insecurity in the state.
They commended the bravery and professionalism of the security personnel, stressing that the dismantling of the gang would significantly boost public confidence and enhance safety across the region.
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