Gunmen kill seven, including security operatives, in fresh Anambra attack

Gunmen have killed seven individuals in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State in a brazen attack on Monday.

Among the victims were two unarmed civilians who were reportedly making burial arrangements for a January 2 ceremony, while the others were security personnel.

A video circulating on social media showed the bodies of two victims identified as members of the Anambra State Vigilante Group (AVG).

Confirming the incident, Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that the attack occurred around 11:20 a.m.

He added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has ordered an immediate manhunt for the perpetrators.

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 eye witnesses 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 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.