THE Anambra State Police have launched an investigation following the shooting of four people at a funeral in Ezi Village, Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area.
The gunmen reportedly attacked the ceremony yesterday, killing four attendees and injuring at least 15 others.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the incident, linking it to cult-related activities.
Ikenga said officers from the Ogidi Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, responded promptly to the distress call and restored order at the scene.
Victims were evacuated for medical treatment, and investigations are ongoing. Sixteen expended cartridges were recovered at the scene as evidence.
“The Command has launched a discreet investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, as initial findings suggest a clash between rival cult groups,” Ikenga stated.
He added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the attack and assured the public of the police’s commitment to eliminating cult-related violence in the state.
Residents were urged to stay calm and report suspicious activities.
This incident comes two months after gunmen reportedly killed 13 people from Ebonyi State during a town union meeting in Ogboji, Orumba South LGA.
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru condemned that attack and called for a prompt investigation.
The Anambra State Government also condemned the recent killings, emphasizing that they were not targeted at any particular ethnic group.
The state, through Commissioner for Information Law Mefor, assured the public that justice would be served and urged the police to carry out a thorough investigation.