By Our Correspondent
No fewer than three persons have reportedly been confirmed dead and five suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) arrested in a military operation in the Orsu-Ihiteukwa community of Orsu, Imo State, while several buildings were also destroyed.
According to sources within the community, the operation was carried out in the early hours of April 26, 2022, as military personnel stormed the area in what was described as a targeted search for alleged IPOB members believed to be operating within the locality.
Residents said the operation led to the destruction of several residential buildings, though the exact number of affected properties has yet to be officially confirmed.
Eyewitnesses reported sporadic gunfire during the raid, which created panic among villagers and forced many to flee their homes.
Three individuals were allegedly killed during the operation. They have been identified as Obiageli Thaddeus, James Okorie, and Theresa Obiegbulem.
It remains unclear whether the deceased were directly linked to the group or were caught in the crossfire.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Security sources disclosed that five suspected IPOB members were arrested during the operation, while others allegedly escaped into nearby bushes and surrounding communities.
The military has reportedly intensified surveillance and manhunt efforts to apprehend those who fled
Among those said to have escaped during the operation are Nnamdi Ebere, Okafor Chukwudi, Emmanuel Obiegbulem, Jame Okon, Okonkwo Odinkalu, Tony Nwabuzor, Nwankwo Eze, and Okoronta Uche.
Security sources alleged that the individuals were part of the group being targeted during the raid.
Military authorities later declared the fleeing suspects wanted and urged members of the public to provide useful information that could aid in their arrest.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the nearest security agency.
As of press time, neither the Nigerian Army nor representatives of IPOB had issued formal statements regarding the incident.
Community leaders have called for calm and urged residents to cooperate with security agencies while appealing for restraint to avoid further loss of life and property.
The situation in the area remains tense, with increased military presence and ongoing security patrols.
