Troops repel ambush in Cross River, four gunmen killed in shootout

Troops of the Nigerian Army have repelled an ambush by suspected armed criminals in Odonget Community, Obubra LGA, Cross River State, Nigeria, killing four attackers during a gun battle that followed a security intervention in the area.

The operation was carried out by soldiers of the Army’s 13 Brigade while responding to tensions arising from a communal dispute in the community.

In a statement issued Thursday, the Major Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the brigade headquarters, Yemi Sokoya, said the incident occurred on March 12, 2026, after troops stationed in Ochon, Cross River State, Nigeria and Alesi, Cross River State, Nigeria received intelligence about rising tensions linked to a local dispute.

According to Sokoya, soldiers were quickly mobilised to prevent the situation from escalating.

He said the troops “acted swiftly to prevent a breakdown of law and order” by deploying to the community, conducting patrols and carrying out a show of force that eventually helped restore calm between the parties involved.

However, trouble erupted as the soldiers were returning to their bases after stabilising the situation.

Sokoya explained that the troops encountered a blocked road, apparently set up by unknown individuals.

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“During efforts to clear the obstruction, the soldiers came under a coordinated ambush by unknown gunmen, leading to a fierce exchange of fire,” the statement said.

Following the report from soldiers on the ground, reinforcements from the 245 Battalion were immediately dispatched to the scene, supported by armoured and tactical vehicles.

“The prompt response enabled the troops to successfully repel and clear the ambush,” Sokoya stated.

During the firefight, four of the attackers were killed while several others managed to escape.

He said troops “neutralised four of the armed attackers, while several others escaped.”

One soldier sustained injuries during the clash and was rushed to Jennifer Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.

In the aftermath of the attack, security forces launched cordon-and-search operations in nearby communities believed to harbour the fleeing suspects.

According to the army spokesman, a curfew has also been imposed in the affected area as part of measures to restore stability.

The curfew, he said, was introduced “to forestall further breakdown of law and order and to deny miscreants the freedom to operate.”

Commander of the 13 Brigade, Patrick Alimikhena, commended the troops for their conduct during the confrontation and praised their professionalism.

He also assured residents of the state of the military’s resolve to maintain security.

The Nigerian Army remains committed to the protection of lives and property, Sokoya said, describing the force’s efforts as an “unwavering commitment to protecting lives and maintaining peace within its Area of Responsibility.”

He also called on residents to assist security agencies with useful information that could help track down the remaining attackers.

“Members of the public are encouraged to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and provide credible information that will assist ongoing operations aimed at apprehending the perpetrators,” the statement added.

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