Gunmen attack Awka community, kill two people

Gunmen, believed to be cultists, have killed two people in different places in Awka, the capital of Anambra State.

The incident happened on Sunday in the Amaenyi Area and S.M. Okeke Street, both in Awka.

Residents told this newspaper that many people were shot during the attack, but as of Sunday night, two deaths were confirmed.

One of those killed was identified as Isaac Nwosu, an elderly man.

A resident, who did not want to be named for safety reasons, said the gunmen are thought to be members of Aye, a feared cult group.

The resident explained that Mr Nwosu was not a cultist, but the attackers aimed for one of his sons, Chinedu, who is said to be a member of Vikings, another cult group.

Police Response

The police in Anambra State confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday.

Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesperson in the state, condemned the violent attack.

Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, confirmed that two people, including Mr Nwosu, were killed, but did not say that cultists were responsible.

“The Command has consequently intensified the ongoing manhunt for the perpetrators and is calling for the support and cooperation of members of the public to assist in bringing the suspects to justice,” he said.

The spokesperson said police officers quickly went to Awka after they received reports of the attack that led to two deaths.

When they arrived, the officers found the bodies of the victims along Capital City Road, Amaenyi, and S.M. Okeke Street, Amaikwo, Awka.

“The victims were taken to a hospital, where they were subsequently confirmed dead by medical personnel.

“While one of the victims is yet to be identified, the second victim has been identified as Isaac Nwosu, male, also known as ‘Azia,’” he stated.

“The operatives also recovered from the scene the sum of ₦7,550, one Moniepoint ATM card and a pair of slippers.”

Commissioner’s Statement

Mr Ikenga said the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnanna Ama, condemned the killings, calling them “unacceptable and a direct affront to the peace and security of the state.”

Mr Ama has ordered that the case be moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for thorough investigation.

The commissioner also instructed officers to increase patrols, surveillance, and intelligence gathering in Awka and nearby areas.

The police chief urged community leaders, residents, drivers, business owners, and others who may have seen what happened or have information about the suspects to come forward and help the police.

“Such information will be treated with utmost confidentiality,” he assured.

He emphasized the Command’s willingness to work with the community, which he said is key to effective policing.