Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Heavy exchange of fire was reported Friday evening between soldiers and some unknown gunmen at Ebem Ohafia, the host community to Goodluck Ebele Jonathan 14 Brigade Nigeria Army.
The situation according to reports led to panic in the community as locals scampered for safety, with some abandoning their homes.
Another version said soldiers were searching homes and shooting sporadically in the community, a development that led to panic and apprehension.
Meanwhile when our Correspondent contacted the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Innocent Omale, he denied that soldiers were searching homes and shooting sporadically contrary to reports.
The Army Spokesman rather explained that some soldiers were on patrol when hoodlums saw them and opened fire on them.
“Our people were going out on patrol and on their way back these bad boys saw them and started shooting at them,” he said.
He, however, said the situation had been brought under control.
When asked if there were any casualties, he said there was no casualty on either side.
There was similar incident about a month ago that led to the death of a girl by stray bullet.
