Troops Repel Ambush in Cross River, Kill Four Gunmen
Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 13 Brigade have successfully repelled an ambush by suspected gunmen while responding to a communal dispute in Odonget community in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The development was disclosed on Thursday in a statement signed by the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade, Lt. Yemi Sokoya.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on March 12, 2026, after troops stationed at Ochon and Alesi received intelligence about rising tensions linked to a communal disagreement in Odonget community.
The soldiers were immediately deployed to the area where they conducted patrols and a show of force to prevent the situation from escalating. Their presence reportedly helped to calm the tensions and restore order between the communities involved.
However, while the troops were returning to their bases after stabilising the area, they discovered that their route had been deliberately blocked by unidentified persons.
While attempting to remove the obstruction, the soldiers were attacked by suspected gunmen in what was described as a coordinated ambush, leading to a gun battle.
Following a distress report from the troops, reinforcements from the 245 Battalion were deployed to the location with armoured and tactical support vehicles.
The swift response enabled the soldiers to repel the attackers and regain control of the area. During the confrontation, four of the gunmen were killed, while others managed to escape.
The Army also confirmed that one soldier sustained injuries during the exchange and was evacuated to Jennifer Hospital in Ochon, where he is currently receiving treatment.
In response to the incident, troops have launched cordon-and-search operations in nearby communities believed to be linked to the attackers in a bid to apprehend those who fled.
A curfew has also been imposed in the affected area to prevent further violence and restrict the movement of suspected criminals.
Meanwhile, the Commander of the 13 Brigade, Brigadier-General Patrick Alimikhena, praised the troops for their bravery and professionalism during the operation.
He reassured residents of Cross River State that the Nigerian Army remains committed to safeguarding lives and maintaining peace in the region.
The Army further urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could assist in tracking down the perpetrators.
