DSS/IPOB CLASH:Army places troops on high alert

The military authorities have placed troops of 82 Division, Enugu, on high alert following the clash between the operatives of the Department of State Services and the Indigenous People of Biafra in Emene, Enugu.

It also asked troops to avoid individual movement in uniforms outside the barracks in order to prevent reprisals by IPOB members.

 

The violent clash which happened on Sunday, reportedly claimed many lives, including two DSS officers said to be on patrol before they were allegedly attacked by IPOB members holding a meeting in the area.

But the Army in a signal despatched to different formations and unit commanders asked troops to be at alert and avoid individual movement in uniforms outside the barracks.

It also warned troops to avoid losing their weapons to criminal elements, adding that commanders must sensitise their men to maintain high alert.

The signal read, “Following the killing of two DSS personnel at Emene and subsequent attack on Keystone Station at Awgu LGA by suspected IPOB members in Enugu State, I am directed to place troops on a high state of alert.

“This is necessary to avert any attack by IPOB members on troops location in the AOR (area of responsibility). Furthermore, on no account must troops allow their weapons to be taken away by criminal elements.

“Commanders at all levels must make deliberate efforts to sensitise troops under command to maintain alertness and avoid individual movement in uniforms outside the barracks for now. Please treat very important and act.”

When asked about the investigation into the clash on Wednesday, the DSS Public Relations Officer, Dr Peter Afunanya, said he was in a meeting and could not provide an update immediately.