Gunmen on Monday morning launched simultaneous attacks on two communities in Anambra State, killing four vigilantes.
Between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m, gunmen stormed Abatete town, targeting security personnel attached to the community’s President-General (PG).
Three security officers were shot and killed in the hail of bullets.
The PG, whose identity has not been disclosed, was critically injured and rushed to a nearby hospital.
“We are praying for his recovery,” said a community leader, adding, “This senseless violence has left our community shaken.”
ALSO READ: Kebbi students laud Gov Idris’ education policies
In a separate incident, gunmen attacked Ukpo Community at the Ukpo Roundabout in Dunukofia Local Government Area, killing one member of the Vigilante Group and a motorcycle rider.
“It was chaos,” said an eyewitness. “The attackers came out of nowhere, shooting indiscriminately and shouting, ‘No Biafra, no freedom.’ We are still trying to process what happened.”
A police source, who pleaded anonymity, said, “The police have launched an investigation into the attacks and are working 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.”
Residents of Abatete and Ukpo are 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.”
Tribune Online gathered that the incidents occurred within a two-hour window, with the first attack happening at 8:00 a.m. in Abatete and the second at 8:45 a.m. in Ukpo.
As of the time of filing this report, it is unclear whether the attacks are connected to today’s IPOB sit-at-home order.
Confirming the incident, the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command has deployed operatives to the affected areas to calm tensions and pursue the perpetrators.
The PPRO promised to provide further details as developments unfold.
