By Linus Aleke
The Nigerian Army yesterday said foot soldiers of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) are the ones masquerading as unknown gunmen in the southeast and wreaking havoc in the region even as it declares that the perpetrators of the heinous crime will not go unpunished.

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In a statement by its Director Public Relations, Brigadier-General Onyema Nwachukwu, obtained by This Nigeria, the Nigerian Army expressed shock at Saturday’s gruesome murder of two soldiers: Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Audu M Linus (retired) and Private (Pte) Gloria Matthew, who were on transit to Imo state for their traditional wedding.

One of the slain soldiers, Gloria, hails from Nkwerre Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State.

Gruesome murder of two soldiers by IPOB/ESN, despicable – Army

“This dastardly act, one too many, clearly portends the deep-seated hate, desperation, and lawlessness with which foot soldiers of IPOB/ESN have been unleashing terror on Ndigbo, whom they claim they are on a mission to protect and emancipate, as well as other innocent Nigerians who are resident or transiting the Southeast,” Army said.

“This gruesome murder, in which they did not spare even their own child, clearly depicts callousness, impenitence and is indisputable, a brazen act of terrorism perpetrated by IPOB/ESN.

“Though the dissident groups have continued to live in denial while masquerading as unknown gunmen in their criminal violent campaign in the region, the NA will ensure the perpetrators of this dastardly act unleashed on its personnel do not go unpunished.
While we deeply condole with the families, relations, and close associates of the victims, the NA has commenced investigation to unmask and bring the criminals to book.

“Members of the public are please enjoined to oblige security agencies actionable information that will lead to the arrest of these criminals.”