Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 13 Brigade repelled an ambush by suspected armed criminals in Obubra Local Government Area, Cross River State, killing four attackers during a gunfight. The incident occurred on March 12, 2026, as soldiers were returning from stabilising tensions in Odonget community linked to a communal dispute.
According to Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for Headquarters 13 Brigade, soldiers received credible intelligence about the crisis and were deployed to prevent an escalation of violence. While conducting patrols and restoring calm, they encountered an obstruction allegedly set up by unidentified individuals, triggering a coordinated attack by gunmen.
Reinforcements from the 245 Battalion, equipped with armoured vehicles and tactical support, arrived promptly, enabling troops to repel the attackers. One soldier sustained injuries and is receiving treatment at Jennifer Hospital in Ochon. Several attackers fled the scene.
In the aftermath, troops have begun cordon and search operations in suspected communities to track down fleeing criminals and prevent further security breaches. Authorities have also imposed a curfew in the affected area to maintain law and order and restrict criminal movement.
Brigadier General Patrick Alimikhena, Commander of 13 Brigade, commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism, assuring residents that the Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting lives and maintaining peace. Residents were urged to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to assist ongoing operations.
