GUNMEN SHOOT AT SOLDIERS WHO ARE ON PATROL IN IMO STATE

Gunmen allegedly ambushed officers of the 34 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Obinze, Owerri, on Monday when they were on patrol in the Izombe community in the Oguta council area of Imo State.

Capt. Joseph Akubo, the Brigade's spokesperson, verified this to reporters on Monday in Owerri.

According to Akubo, the incident took place after soldiers were sent to the oil-rich region to quell local youth unrest and other crimes.

He continued; "The soldiers came under attack by armed youngsters when they were on normal patrol in the area," he said

"Two days ago, a truck driver was killed, coupled with other criminal activities which had necessitated increased patrol.

"The soldiers were on normal patrol when they came under attack."

Akubo, however, said he had yet to confirm the casualty figure as the youths were still engaging the soldiers in a fierce battle.

He added, "I can't tell you the casualty figure because the armed youths are still attacking our men who're taking cover in the buildings in the neighbourhood."