Anambra: Gunmen attack police patrol team, burn vehicle

Anambra map

Some yet-to-be-identified assailants attacked a joint police patrol team along the Abatete–Eziowelle Road in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State on Wednesday.

The incident reportedly caused panic in the area as it led to a shootout between the policemen and the assailants.

Eyewitnesses said the gunmen burnt a patrol vehicle and injured one of the police officers.

One of the eyewitnesses said, “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.”

Our correspondent gathered that during the exchange of gunfire, the patrol bus belonging to the Special Anti-Cultism Squad was hit by bullets and set ablaze, while the Department of Operations (DOPS) patrol pickup van was riddled with bullets and damaged. Punch