Troops of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have foiled an ambush by suspected criminals while responding to a communal dispute in Odonget Community, Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The Army disclosed this in a statement on Thursday signed by the Major Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lt. Yemi Sokoya.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on March 12, 2026, after troops stationed in Ochon and Alesi received credible intelligence about rising tensions linked to a communal disagreement in Odonget Community.
Sokoya said the troops swiftly mobilised to the area to prevent a breakdown of law and order, carrying out patrols and a show of force that helped calm the situation and restore normalcy among the parties involved.
However, while returning to their respective locations after stabilising the community, the soldiers discovered that their route had been deliberately blocked by unidentified individuals.
“While attempting to clear the obstruction, the troops came under a coordinated ambush by unknown gunmen, leading to a fierce exchange of fire,” the statement said.
He added that following a contact report from the troops on the ground, reinforcements from the 245 Battalion were immediately deployed with armoured and tactical support vehicles to counter the attack.
“The prompt response enabled the troops to successfully repel and clear the ambush,” Sokoya stated.
During the engagement, troops neutralised four of the attackers, while several others fled the scene.
The Army spokesman said one soldier sustained injuries during the incident and was immediately evacuated to Jennifer Hospital in Ochon, Obubra Local Government Area, where he is currently receiving treatment.
Sokoya further disclosed that troops had commenced cordon-and-search operations in communities suspected to be linked to the attackers in a bid to track down the fleeing criminals and prevent further security breaches.
He added that a curfew had been imposed in the affected area to forestall any further breakdown of law and order and deny criminal elements freedom of movement.
The Commander of the 13 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Patrick Alimikhena, commended the bravery and professionalism displayed by the troops in repelling the attackers.
He also reassured residents of Cross River State of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and maintaining peace within its area of responsibility.
The Army urged members of the public to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information that could assist ongoing operations aimed at apprehending the perpetrators.
