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

Nigerian Army troops have successfully thwarted an ambush carried out by suspected armed criminals in Odonget Community, Obubra LGA, Cross River State, Nigeria, killing four assailants in a gunfight following security intervention in the area.

This operation was carried out by soldiers from the 13th Brigade of the Indonesian Army to address tensions arising from communal disputes in society.

In a statement issued Thursday, Principal Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at 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 escalating tensions related to local disputes.

According to Sokoya, soldiers were immediately deployed to prevent the situation from getting worse.

He said troops “acted quickly to prevent a breakdown of law and order” by deploying troops into communities, carrying out patrols and carrying out shows of force that ultimately helped restore calm among the parties involved.

However, problems arose when the soldiers returned to their base after the situation had stabilized.

Sokoya explained that the troops encountered a blocked road, apparently made by an unknown person.

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“During efforts to clear the obstruction, soldiers were ambushed in a coordinated manner by unknown gunmen, leading to a heavy firefight,” the statement said.

Following reports from soldiers on the ground, reinforcements from Battalion 245 were immediately deployed to the scene, supported by armored and tactical vehicles.

“The rapid response allowed troops to successfully repel and clear the attack,” Sokoya said.

In the shootout, four attackers were killed while several others managed to escape.

He said troops “neutralized four armed attackers, while several others fled.”

One soldier was injured in the clash and rushed to Jennifer Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.

Following the attack, security forces launched cordon and search operations in nearby communities believed to be hosting the fleeing suspects.

According to a military spokesperson, a curfew was also imposed in the affected areas as part of efforts to restore stability.

The curfew, he said, was imposed “to prevent further violations of law and order and to impede the freedom of criminals to operate.”

Commander of 13 Brigade, Patrick Alimikhena, praised the troops’ actions during the confrontation and praised their professionalism.

He also assured citizens of the military’s determination to maintain security.

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

He also called on citizens to assist security agencies with useful information that could help trace the remaining attackers.

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