BY BETI ONU /AWKA
IT was a tragic Wednesday in parts of Anambra State as heavily armed gunmen launched coordinated attacks in Ekwulobia, Aguata local Government Area, and Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area, leaving in their trails at least four people dead and several others injured.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants, numbering about 20 arrived around at 8:00 a.m. and took strategic positions atop the newly constructed flyover bridge in the center of Ekwulobia. From there, they reportedly opened fire indiscriminately and engaged a joint security patrol team consisting of police officers, soldiers, and members of the Anambra State Homeland Security outfit, known locally as “Udo Ga-achi.
“There was pandemonium everywhere. Most people were on their way to work or opening their shops when the shooting started. Everyone ran in different directions looking for safety. ”one witness said.
During the ambush, one of the security vehicles belonging to the joint task force was set ablaze by the attackers.
The exchange of gunfire caused chaos throughout the area and disrupted normal activities for several hours.
Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, stated that security operatives killed one of the assailants during the confrontation.
However, he also confirmed the unfortunate death of two civilians and the destruction of a security patrol vehicle by the gunmen.
“The operatives responded swiftly to the attack, engaging the hoodlums in a gun battle. One of the assailants was killed, but sadly, we lost two civilian lives. A patrol vehicle was also torched during the incident,” Ikenga said .
The police spokesperson added that investigations are ongoing and that efforts have been intensified to track down the fleeing assailants and restore calm to the affected communities.
Wednesday’s attack adds to growing concerns over the resurgence of violent criminal activities in parts of Anambra State, despite repeated assurances from security agencies of improved surveillance and coordinated responses.
