Some yet-to-be-identified assailants have reportedly attacked a joint police patrol team along the Abatete–Eziowelle Road in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State on Wednesday.
According to reports, the event sparked fear in the neighbourhood and resulted in a gunfight between the attackers and the police.
Witnesses also revealed that the shooters wounded one of the police officers and set fire to a patrol car.
One of the eyewitnesses said, “The gunmen, who were heavily armed, ambushed the patrol operatives from the Department of Operations, State Headquarters, Awka, and the Special Anti-Cultism Squad while they were on routine surveillance along the axis.
“The attackers operated in a convoy of vehicles, including a white Toyota Hummer bus, a black Lexus 350 SUV, and a white Toyota Highlander, all bearing unidentified registration numbers. They dressed in full military and police-like uniforms to carry out the attack.
“They opened heavy fire on the patrol teams, prompting a fierce exchange. The intense gun duel forced the assailants to retreat after several minutes.”
It was discovered that the Department of Operations (DOPS) patrol pickup van was destroyed and riddled with bullets during the gunfight, while the Special Anti-Cultism Squad patrol bus was struck by bullets and burned.
Videos from the scene, which are currently making the rounds on social media, show the car burning while locals fled for their lives.
In a news release, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, acknowledged the event and stated that the suspects engaged the patrol teams but were effectively repulsed.
Ikenga said, “The Anambra State Police Command wishes to inform the public that an armed group, operating in a convoy of three vehicles, was intercepted by police patrol teams along the Eziowelle axis earlier today.
“The suspects engaged the patrol teams but were successfully repelled. No civilian casualties were recorded.
“Following the above, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, has ordered an immediate strengthening of security measures across the state. All police divisions, formations, and patrol units have been placed on heightened alert to ensure the safety of residents.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm, continue with their lawful activities, and promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.”
He added that the police command remains committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure peace and stability within the state.
