Military Blames IPOB Explosives For Enugu Fire
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that houses were destroyed during a military operation in Imezi Owa, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The military claimed the destruction happened after improvised explosive devices allegedly stored by suspected members of IPOB and the Eastern Security Network exploded during a gun battle with troops.
According to the army, security operatives carried out an intelligence-led raid on May 6 while tracking suspected criminal collaborators in the community.
Soldiers reportedly came under attack from gunmen operating from a building said to be used as a hideout. The army said three personnel were injured during the exchange.
Military authorities stated that explosives inside the building detonated and triggered the fire that spread through parts of the area.
Troops later recovered more explosive devices, improvised grenades and other items during searches. One suspect was arrested and handed over to the police for investigation.
Residents, however, gave a different account of the incident, accusing soldiers of deliberately burning houses during the operation.
Community members said several compounds and homes were destroyed, while some residents claimed an elderly sick woman was trapped during the fire outbreak.
The incident has renewed concerns over alleged destruction of civilian property during security operations in the South-East.
