In a tragic incident that occurred during a gunmen attack in Nnobi, Anambra State, a 22-year-old newlywed bride lost her life. The victim, whose name is being withheld, had recently celebrated her traditional marriage just a week ago. She was eagerly waiting for her husband, who resides overseas, to return home when she was struck by stray bullets from the assailants.
The attack took place on Monday, causing panic in both Nnewi and Nnobi towns. Unidentified assailants targeted these neighboring towns, resulting in the loss of several lives, including that of some vigilante operatives. The assailants, suspected to be enforcers of a sit-at-home order, fired shots indiscriminately, sending residents and traders into a state of fear.
A family source, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their relative. The victim was the only child of her parents and had been sent to the family farm to collect vegetables for their meal. Tragically, she was caught in the crossfire between security officials and the criminals while returning home.
The source shared, “The hoodlums invaded the Nnobi community in a black Landcruiser jeep and opened fire on some vigilante operatives, leaving two security personnel seriously injured. It is alarming that, more than 24 hours later, no arrests have been made. We are deeply concerned about the escalating violence in Igbo land.”
The Anambra State police command, in collaboration with the vigilante service, has launched a manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators of the attack. The Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam, has ordered an immediate operation to track down the armed men responsible for the abduction of a citizen in Nnewi. During the subsequent gun battle in Nnobi, a security operative and two innocent passersby lost their lives.
The police spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga, assured the public that justice would be served for the slain vigilante operative and others who fell victim to the attack. He condemned the killings and described the assailants as cowards. The Anambra State Vigilante Service also pledged to work tirelessly alongside other security forces to bring those responsible to justice.
The incident has left the community in shock and mourning. The family of one of the injured victims declined to comment, stating that they are still processing the traumatic experience. Although the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed, sources in both towns estimate that at least six individuals lost their lives.
The authorities are urging members of the public, especially eyewitnesses, to come forward with any information that may assist in the ongoing operation. Further updates on the investigation will be communicated as they become available.
It is disheartening to witness such violence in the region, and the need for swift action to maintain peace and security is evident. The police and vigilante service are working diligently to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are held accountable.
