At least five persons were feared dead, Monday, as unknown gunmen launched a series of attacks on Ukpo in Dunukofia and Abatete in Idemili North local government areas of Anambra state.
According to sources, the gunmen, who came in their numbers around 9am and 10am, were seen chanting solidarity songs in support of a sit-at-home order previously instigated by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Blueprint learnt that four members of Anambra State Vigilante Operatives were killed in the attacks which also left the President General of Abatete wounded and taken to hospital in a tricycle (Keke).
Similarly, one Okada (motorcycle) rider was allegedly killed while his passenger riddled with gunshots was taken to a nearby hospital at Ukpo, where the Zone 13 of the Police is also domiciled.
“Come and see ooo. Unknown gun attacked our community today. Our PG was gunned down but he did not die. We have taken him to the hospital, and are praying for his recovery. This senseless violence has left our community shaken,” the source stated at Abatete.
“It was chaos. The attackers came out of nowhere, shooting indiscriminately. Shouting no Biafra, no freedom. We are still trying to process what happened,” another source stated at Ukpo.
The Anambra State police command was yet to officially confirm the incidents but a police officer who spoke under the condition of anonymity said it is true but added, “The police have launched an investigation into the attacks and are working to apprehend the perpetrators.”