Troops of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army engaged unknown gunmen in a fierce gunfight in Obubra Local Government Area, Cross River State, on Thursday.
The clash left four of the gunmen dead, while one soldier sustained injuries and was evacuated to a hospital for treatment.
The soldiers, who were returning from Ochon and Alesi communities, were ambushed by unidentified armed men, prompting a swift and intense exchange of fire.
In a statement, Lt. Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at Headquarters 13 Brigade, confirmed the incident and the outcome of the confrontation.
“During efforts to clear the obstruction, the soldiers came under a coordinated ambush by unknown gunmen, leading to a fierce exchange of fire,” Sokoya said.
He explained that following a contact report from troops on the ground, reinforcements from the 245 Battalion were immediately deployed with armoured and tactical support vehicles to support the 13 Brigade troops.
The swift reinforcement, he said, enabled the soldiers to repel the attack and regain control of the area.
“During the engagement, troops neutralised four of the armed attackers, while several others escaped,” Sokoya added.
He disclosed that one soldier sustained injuries during the exchange and was evacuated to Jennifer Hospital in Ochon, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The Army spokesman further stated that troops had commenced cordon-and-search operations in suspected communities linked to the attackers to track down fleeing suspects and forestall further security breaches.
Meanwhile, the Commander of 13 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Patrick Alimikhena, commended the bravery and professionalism of the troops in confronting the attackers.
He reassured residents of Cross River State of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and maintaining peace within its area of responsibility.