At least five people were feared dead after unidentified gunmen launched attacks on two communities in Anambra State early Monday morning.
According to sources, heavily armed attackers descended on Abatete in Idemili North Local Government Area, targeting security personnel assigned to protect the town’s President-General.
Three security guards were reportedly killed in a gunfight, while the President-General, whose identity remains undisclosed, sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a hospital.
One resident shared, “We are hoping he recovers. The violence has left our community in shock.”
Residents expressed fear and called for heightened security measures following the incident.
In a separate attack, gunmen struck at the Ukpo roundabout in Dunukofia Local Government Area, killing a vigilante operative and a motorcycle rider.
An eyewitness described the scene as chaotic, stating, “The attackers appeared suddenly and opened fire indiscriminately.”
A police official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that authorities have initiated an investigation and are working to track down those responsible.
“We strongly condemn these violent acts and are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice,” the source added.
Reports indicate that the attacks occurred about 45 minutes apart, with the first assault in Abatete at 8:00 a.m., followed by the Ukpo incident at 8:45 a.m.
Attempts to reach Anambra State police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga were unsuccessful as calls went unanswered, and messages remained without response at the time of this report.
