Maha Christopher
The Anambra State Police Command has launched a manhunt for gunmen who killed two police officers in an ambush along the Amansea–Ndiora–Ndiukwuenu–Awa–Ufuma Road in Orumba South Local Government Area of the state.
According to The Punch, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, ordered an intensive operation to track down the attackers during an emergency security meeting held at the State Police Command Headquarters in Awka on Monday.
The officers were reportedly ambushed on Sunday night while returning from an assignment as part of a convoy operation.
Reports indicated that the convoy of the Chief of Staff to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Ben Nwankwo, was also involved in the attack after he attended an event on behalf of the governor and was travelling back to Awka.
While Nwankwo escaped unharmed, some civilians in the entourage were reportedly injured during the gun battle.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers, who were allegedly hiding in nearby bushes, opened fire on the convoy, causing panic among residents and road users.
A tricycle rider who witnessed the incident said he abandoned his vehicle and fled after hearing gunshots.
“The incident happened last night. I was returning from a journey when I suddenly heard gunshots. I abandoned my tricycle and turned back for safety.
“After the shooting subsided, I resumed my journey and got to the point where the shooting occurred, only to discover that two police officers had been gunned down and were lying lifeless on the road,” he said.
Confirming the attack, Orutugu said investigations had commenced and security operatives were intensifying efforts to apprehend those responsible.
“A team of police officers was returning from an assignment when they were ambushed by armed men who opened fire on them. In the process, we lost two officers,” he said.
The police commissioner declared what he described as “Operation Fish Them Out,” directing officers to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
“I want results. The people of Anambra State must know that the police are fully in charge and ready to protect them.
“The slain officers must get justice. We cannot remain silent while police personnel continue to lose their lives at the hands of criminals,” Orutugu stated.
He also warned residents to be vigilant around checkpoints, noting that some criminal elements now disguise themselves in police and military uniforms while carrying out attacks.
The police boss further advised motorists and commuters to exercise caution on the Amansea–Ufuma Road, describing it as a lonely route that has recently witnessed increased criminal activity.
Despite the incident, Orutugu assured residents that the command remained committed to protecting lives and property across the state and expressed confidence that significant breakthroughs would be recorded within 48 hours.
