By Karen James
In Anambra State, Nigeria – Monday morning turned tragic as gunmen unleashed simultaneous attacks on two communities in Anambra State, leaving at least five people dead and several others injured.
The attacks, which occurred between 8:00 am and 10:00 am, targeted Abatete and Ukpo communities, leaving behind a trail of death and destruction.
In Abatete town, gunmen stormed the area and attacked security personnel attached to the community’s President-General (PG). In a hail of bullets, three security operatives were killed, while the PG, whose identity remains undisclosed, was critically injured and rushed to a nearby hospital.
“We are praying for his recovery,” said a community leader. “This senseless violence has left our community shaken.”
Chaos in Ukpo, Shortly after the Abatete incident, another group of gunmen attacked the Ukpo roundabout in Dunukofia Local Government Area, killing a member of the local Vigilante Group and a motorcycle rider.
“It was chaos,” an eyewitness recounted. “The attackers came out of nowhere, shooting indiscriminately and shouting, ‘No Biafra, no freedom.’ We are still trying to process what happened.”
Police Respond, Investigations Underway! An unnamed police source confirmed that an investigation has been launched to apprehend the perpetrators. “We condemn these heinous acts and assure the public that we will do everything possible to bring the culprits to justice,” the source said.
The State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the attacks and stated that operatives had been deployed to the affected areas to restore calm and pursue the attackers. The PPRO promised to provide further updates as investigations unfold.
Communities Call for Security! The attacks have left the residents of Abatete and Ukpo in shock, with many calling for increased security presence.
“We are tired of living in fear,” said a local resident. “The government must do more to protect us.”
While the motive behind the attacks remains unclear, sources suggest a potential link to the IPOB sit-at-home order issued for Monday. However, authorities are yet to confirm if the attacks were connected to the order.
State of Tension, As both communities mourn their dead and pray for the recovery of the injured, the incidents underscore the urgent need for heightened security across Anambra State.
The police have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as efforts to apprehend the perpetrators continue.
