Confirming the attack, the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, has ordered an immediate manhunt for the fleeing gunmen.
Anambra, Nigeria – At least seven people, including police officers and two civilians, were killed during an attack by unidentified gunmen in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The incident occurred on Monday morning when the assailants stormed a venue where preparations for a burial ceremony were ongoing and began shooting indiscriminately. Witnesses reported that the attack led to the tragic deaths and left the community in shock.
Local sources suggested the attack may be linked to a directive reportedly issued by the assailants prohibiting burial ceremonies in the community without their authorization. However, the exact motive remains unclear.
Confirming the attack, the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, has ordered an immediate manhunt for the fleeing gunmen.
In a statement issued late Monday, Ikenga disclosed that the attack occurred around 11:20 am and involved both security operatives and unarmed civilians. “The unfortunate attack resulted in the death of seven persons, among which are two unarmed passers-by. The Joint Security Team rescued one of the victims, who is currently receiving treatment at a hospital,” the statement read.
The assailants reportedly fired at security personnel stationed near a security observation post close to the Ihiala Local Government Headquarters before fleeing the scene.
The Commissioner of Police visited the site for an on-the-spot assessment and interviewed eyewitnesses about the attack. “Information also had it that the armed men started shooting sporadically at a venue where preparations are ongoing for a burial ceremony slated for the 2nd of January 2025,” Ikenga added.
CP Itam extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured the public that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
As of now, security forces are working to restore calm in the area while intensifying efforts to apprehend the attackers.
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