Panic swept through Nawfia community in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State on Sunday after unknown gunmen stormed the Afor Market Junction area, leaving several persons feared dead in a sudden and brutal attack.
Residents said the armed men struck without warning, opening fire on people around the busy spot and forcing many to flee in different directions.
According to locals, multiple victims were hit during the assault, with some sustaining fatal injuries.
One source said, “The armed hoodlums invaded Afor Market Junction and immediately opened fire, killing a lot of people. Nobody knows the reason behind the attack; the attack has left our community shaken.”
Others who spoke on the incident described the raid as shocking, noting that fear has gripped the community as many are demanding heightened security presence to forestall further violence.
An eyewitness near the scene recounted the moment the attackers arrived, saying, “It was chaos. The attackers came out of nowhere this evening in a commando-like fashion and started shooting indiscriminately.
“The police have launched an investigation into the attacks and are working to apprehend the perpetrators.”
A video circulating online shows residents running for cover as bodies of victims were seen lying in pools of blood.
Confirming the incident in a statement, the President General of Nawfia Progressive Union, Chief Daniel Okoye, said security agencies had been alerted and investigations had begun to identify those behind the attack.
Okoye said, “This evening, I received with deep shock the tragic news of an attack at the Afor Market Junction in Nawfia community.
“The incident resulted in multiple casualties, caused by unknown assailants who carried out this senseless act of violence.
“I strongly condemn this heartbreaking incident and the attempt to disrupt the peace of our beloved community. I have already contacted the relevant security agencies, and investigations are underway to uncover those responsible.
“I appeal to all Ndi Nawfia to remain calm, stay vigilant, and continue to cooperate with security operatives as they work tirelessly to restore normalcy and ensure our safety.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families affected. On behalf of the Nawfia Progressive Union, I extend our deepest sympathies and assure you that we are fully committed to supporting efforts aimed at protecting lives and maintaining peace in Nawfia.”
Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
However, a police source who preferred anonymity said, “The police have launched an investigation into the attacks and are working to apprehend the perpetrators.
“We condemn these heinous acts and assure the public that we will do everything possible to bring the culprits to justice.”