Gunmen kill five security operatives, two others in Anambra

Gunmen operating in the Ihiala Local government area of Anambra killed seven people on Monday.

Nigerian Tribune gathered that out of the seven people killed, two were unarmed civilians who were in a compound planning a burial that was to take place on January 2, while the other were security operatives.

A viral video circulated on social media showed the body of two of the victims, who are members of Anambra State Vigilante Group (AVG).

Meanwhile, the state police command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga has confirmed the incident. In a press release, he said the commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam has ordered immediate manhunt of the assailants.

He said the incident happened at about 11.20am and that the attack resulted in the death of seven persons, among which were two unarmed passers-by.

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

“The CP, while on an on-the-spot assessment visit to the scene, interviewed some eyewitnesses of the incident. 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.

“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 CP has extended his condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives, especially the good people of Ihiala over the sad incident. He further assured that the perpetrators would be hunted down.