Gunmen kill ‘seven security operatives’ in Anambra

The police command in Anambra says seven security operatives have been killed by gunmen in the Ihiala area of the state.

Tochukwu Ikenga, the command’s spokesperson, told journalists in a statement that the attack occurred in the early hours of Monday, sparking widespread panic.

Ikenga added that Nnaghe Itam, the state’s commissioner of police, has ordered an immediate manhunt for the attackers.

“The CP extends his condolences to the families of those whose loved ones were involved in the gunmen attack that left seven security operatives, including two unarmed passers-by, dead,” the statement reads.

“The Joint Security Team rescued one of the victims, who is currently responding to treatment in a hospital.”

Ikenga added that Itam visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment and spoke to eyewitnesses about the incident.

“Information also had it that the armed men started shooting sporadically at a venue where preparations were ongoing for a burial ceremony slated for 2nd January, 2025,” he said.

“Also, while escaping the scene, the armed men shot at two security operatives at a security observation post close to the local government headquarters by the express road.”

Ikenga said the commissioner vowed to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they face justice.

The attack adds to the spate of gun violence that has bedevilled Anambra in recent times.

On December 24, unidentified gunmen abducted Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra state house of assembly representing Onitsha north constituency.

The lawmaker was reportedly attacked along Ugwunapampa road in Onitsha while returning home for Christmas celebrations.

On December 26, gunmen killed Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo, a Catholic priest in the Nnewi Diocese.

Raphael Ezeogu, the diocesan chancellor, confirmed in a statement that the priest was shot dead by unknown assailants along the Onitsha-Owerri expressway in Ihiala.

In November, gunmen allegedly killed four people in Ukpo, Dunukofia LGA, and Abatete in Idemili North LGA, while enforcing a sit-at-home order.