The Anambra State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the suspects involved in an attack that left one police officer dead and another injured at a checkpoint on Omata Junction, Nnewi-Oba Road, in Idemili South Local Government Area.
According to the PUNCH, the incident occurred around 9:20 a.m. on Friday when armed assailants stormed the checkpoint and hurled explosive devices at the police operatives stationed there. The motive behind the attack remains unclear at this time.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the attack in a statement on Friday.
He stated that Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, has ordered an intensive manhunt to track down the perpetrators.
Ikenga stated, “The Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, has ordered manhunt operations for the gunmen who attacked the police team around 9:20 a.m. on August 9, 2024, at a checkpoint at Omata Junction, Nnewi-Oba Road.
“The operation is being led by the Assistant Commissioner in charge of the Nnewi Area Command, who is collaborating with local residents to identify and apprehend the attackers.
“During the attack, one police officer was fatally struck by an explosive device thrown by the assailants, while another officer sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.”
The police have since secured the area, and further details will be communicated as the investigation progresses.
