Several Killed As Army, Youths Clash in Imo

By Sunny A Ijomah

Several people were allegedly killed as youths of Izombe in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, on Monday clashed with soldiers from the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze.

It was gathered that the incident happened after soldiers were drafted to the oil-rich community to checkmate youth restiveness in the area.

It was learnt that the killing of the driver of one Dangote truck by the youth three days ago had prompted increased patrol by the soldiers.

It was also gathered that there were sporadic shootings after the youths allegedly attacked the patrol team.

A native of the area, who preferred anonymity, confirmed the incident, describing it as an invasion.

He said the soldiers entered the community and shot sporadically.

However, the Spokesperson of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, Captain Joseph Akubo, who confirmed the incident in a telephone interview, denied that soldiers invaded the community.

Captain Akubo said the youths had attacked the soldiers who were on a normal patrol following increased criminal activities in the area.

He said he could not ascertain the casualty figure as the youths were still engaging the soldiers in a fierce battle.