By Fresh Facts Magazine
The Anambra State Police Command has recorded a major operational breakthrough in its ongoing campaign against violent crime, following the neutralisation of two armed suspects during a fierce gun battle at Enugwu Agidi Junction in Dunukofia Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, January 14, was the outcome of a coordinated intelligence-led operation by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu. According to the Police, the operatives had laid an ambush for a five-man gang believed to be involved in armed robbery, cult-related violence, and activities linked to a proscribed secessionist group.
Police sources said the suspects opened fire upon sighting the operatives, leading to an intense exchange that lasted for about two hours. Two members of the gang sustained fatal gunshot injuries, while three others escaped into nearby areas with gunshot wounds.
A cache of weapons and other items was recovered at the scene, including one T.06 rifle, two pump-action guns, 24 rounds of T.06 ammunition, 15 live cartridges, assorted charms, a cult-related red beret, and a black Toyota Highlander vehicle allegedly used by the suspects.
In a significant development, the police disclosed that one of the neutralised suspects made a confessional statement before dying, implicating the gang in an earlier attack on the convoy of a former Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, which was reportedly repelled by security operatives. The suspect also identified the group as a strike squad of the Vikings confraternity allegedly mobilised to avenge the killing of one of their members by a rival cult group.
Reacting to the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for their bravery and professionalism, while directing them to intensify efforts to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensure that criminal elements have no hiding place in Anambra State,” the Police Commissioner said, urging residents to continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, also issued an advisory to hospitals and other medical facilities across the state, calling on them to promptly report any person seeking treatment for gunshot wounds or related injuries to the nearest police station.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing, the Police said, adding that further updates would be communicated as developments unfold.
Fresh Facts Magazine reports that the latest operation is part of a broader security push by the Anambra State Police Command aimed at sustaining public safety and dismantling organised criminal networks across the state.
