Residents of several communities in Ehime Mbano local government area in Imo State have fled their homes for safety after soldiers reportedly invaded the community following the killing of eight security operatives by unknown gunmen last Tuesday.
Fleeing residents told journalists on Wednesday that rampaging soldiers destroyed properties, and burned down buildings and shops during the invasion.
The alleged invasion came after gunmen ambushed a joint taskforce team comprising soldiers, policemen, and men of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps in two patrol vehicles, killed the occupants, and set the vehicles ablaze.
A viral video seen by NOHR showed the destruction of property in the community. The narrator alleged that the act was perpetrated by the armed soldiers. According to him, several shops, buildings, properties, food shops, and bars were razed by the rampaging soldiers seeking justice for their colleagues.
“We have suffered in this community. What do they want us to do in this community? That a crime was committed in this community does not mean that it is Ehime Mbano people who did it. You people should come to our rescue. Shops, bars, event centers, and food stalls were all burned down today by the military men of Nigeria,” he said.
