A joint police patrol team along the Abatete–Eziowelle Road in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State was attached by gunmen on Wednesday.
According to eye-witness, the situation escalated into an exchange of gun fire between the police and the gunmen, a situation that caused panic among the resident of the area.
According to the eye-witness, “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.”
Confirming the incident, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command explained that the gunmen engaged the police officers in a gun battle but were unable to over power the policemen
“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.”