Some yet-to-be-identified gunmen on Wednesday launched an attack on a joint police patrol team in Anambra State.
The attack, residents said happened along the Abatete–Eziowelle Road in Idemili North Local Government Area of the state.
According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen approached the patrol team and engaged the police officers in a gun duel.
They also burnt the police patrol vehicle and injured one of the officers in the team.
“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,” an eyewitness said.
It was also gathered that the operational vehicle belonging to the Special Anti-Cultism Squad was hit by bullets and set ablaze.
In addition, the Department of Operations (DOPS) patrol pickup van was damaged and hit with bullets by the assailants.
A viral video from the scene showed the operational vehicle burning in the middle of the road while residents scampered for safety.
Confirming the incident, Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra State police command said the assailant engaged the patrol teams but was successfully repelled.
Ikenga in a statement issued shortly after the incident added that there were no civilian casualties recorded from the incident.
“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,” Ikenga said.
He further called on members of the public to remain calm while assuring the police’s committment to securing the lives of residents of the state.