Gunmen Strike Security Checkpoint in Anambra State
On Thursday night, tension gripped residents of Anambra State in Nigeria’s South-east as gunmen launched an attack on police officers stationed at a checkpoint. The incident took place along the Umuchu-Amesi-Uga Road in Ajali, Orumba North Local Government Area.
Sequence of Events
How the Attack Unfolded
According to residents, the gunmen targeted the checkpoint, engaging police operatives in a fierce gunfight. A local resident, Ejimofor, revealed that the assailants, who had earlier snatched a vehicle in the community, felt they were being pursued.
Members of the Anambra State Vigilante Group (AVG) from the neighboring Umuchu community joined forces with the police to counter the attackers. During the confrontation, one police officer and a vigilante operative sustained gunshot injuries.
The attackers fled after police operatives deflated the tires of their Toyota Hilux vehicle, halting their escape. However, before retreating, the gunmen set ablaze two vehicles belonging to the vigilante group.
Official Response
Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident. He highlighted that:
- Interception and Resistance: The gunmen were intercepted during a search operation after their attack on the Ajali checkpoint.
- Findings: Police recovered food preservation coolers from the attackers’ abandoned vehicle.
- Casualties: Injured operatives are receiving medical treatment, and investigations are underway.
Two vigilante vehicles were completely destroyed in the fire, further escalating concerns over frequent assaults on security personnel in the region.
Rising Insecurity in Anambra
The Thursday attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents targeting security forces in Anambra:
- Amesi-Uga Road Incident (Two Weeks Prior): Gunmen ambushed vigilante operatives, leaving several injured.
- November 18 Attack: Four vigilante officers were killed in Abatete and Ukpo communities in Idemili North and Dunukofia Local Government Areas, respectively.
Despite the recurring violence, no group has officially claimed responsibility. However, speculations continue to link the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to the attacks. IPOB, an organization advocating for the creation of an independent Biafra state, has consistently denied involvement in the rising insecurity across the South-east.
Addressing the Crisis
The escalating attacks highlight the urgent need for enhanced security measures and collaboration between law enforcement and local vigilante groups. Anambra State authorities and stakeholders are working to restore peace and stability in the affected communities.
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