Anambra Policemen Panic as Unknown Gunmen Intensify Attacks

The violent attacks by unidentified gunmen posing as secessionists has left the police force in a of panic in Anambra State.

These assaults have resulted in casualties on both sides, with recent incidents in Nnewi and Nnobi highlighting the severity of the situation.

On August 16, 2024, at around 6:30 am, gunmen attacked a police checkpoint near the Nnobi Police Headquarters, leading to a prolonged gunfight that lasted about an hour.

One police officer, identified only as Nwaibi, was fatally injured during the confrontation.

Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers had sophisticated weapons, including AK-47s and snipers, and had taken control of a nearby house to launch their assault.

Just a week earlier, another attack occurred in Nnewi, where gunmen ambushed a police team at Omata junction, killing one officer and injuring another with an improvised explosive device.

The Anambra State Police Command confirmed these incidents, with spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga stating, "Manhunt operation has commenced, and it is led by Assistant Commissioner in charge of Nnewi Area Command."

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have denied any involvement in these attacks. In a statement, IPOB spokesman Emma Powerful clarified, "ESN operatives are not after the Nigerian Security Forces.

Our mandate is to protect Biafran bushes, forests, and people from Fulani terrorists masquerading as herdsmen."

Despite these assurances, the morale among police officers in Anambra is at an all-time low.

A source within the police command, speaking anonymously, revealed, "Our men now live in fear as they go out for duty.

There has not been any noticeable assurance to them about their own safety, or any form of incentive that can make them stake their lives when on their job."

Efforts to get a response from the new Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, on measures being taken to boost the morale of his officers have so far been unsuccessful.