The Anambra State Police Command emphasized its commitment to uncovering the full details of the incident and ensuring the safety of residents.
Anambra, Nigeria – Two individuals were feared dead and several others injured following a gun battle between local security operatives and police officers at Izuchukwu Junction along Nnobi/Nnewi Road, Anambra State, on Wednesday evening.
Eyewitnesses reported that the incident caused chaos in the area, with residents and passers-by fleeing for safety. According to accounts, a vehicle caught fire after its fuel tank was struck by bullets, further intensifying the panic.
An eyewitness said, “The incident happened last night. We just saw security operatives engaging each other in a gun battle, and during the exchange, two passers-by were hit by stray bullets. A vehicle was also burnt when bullets hit its fuel tank.”
The chaotic scene was captured in videos circulating online, with voices narrating the ordeal.
The Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident on Thursday. He explained that the confrontation occurred due to a misunderstanding, with local security forces mistaking police operatives for hostile elements.
“The command is aware of the shooting incident that took place at Izuchukwu Junction, Nnobi/Nnewi Road, around 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20, 2024,” Ikenga stated. “Local security operatives mistook police officers for unfriendly forces and opened fire, leading to a gun duel.”
He clarified that the attack was not carried out by non-state actors and was unrelated to any attempts to disrupt the burial of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that security operatives were trailing a suspect to a checkpoint when the gunfight ensued. Unfortunately, bullets struck the fuel tank of a Toyota Venza Sedan, causing it to catch fire. Two innocent passers-by sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital,” Ikenga added.
He assured residents of Nnewi that Joint Security Forces have been deployed to maintain peace and security during the burial ceremonies of the late senator. He urged the public to remain calm as investigations into the incident continue.
The Anambra State Police Command emphasized its commitment to uncovering the full details of the incident and ensuring the safety of residents.
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