A violent confrontation between local security operatives and police officers in Anambra State on Wednesday night left two people feared dead and others injured. The incident, which occurred at Izuchukwu Junction along the Nnobi/Nnewi Road, caused panic in the area.
Eyewitnesses reported that during the exchange of gunfire, a bullet struck the fuel tank of a vehicle, igniting it. The resulting fire heightened the chaos, as residents and passers-by scrambled for safety. Two individuals caught in the crossfire reportedly suffered gunshot wounds.
Videos circulating online have provided additional details about the incident, capturing voices narrating the events as they unfolded.
According to the Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the confrontation began when local security personnel mistook police officers for hostile forces. Ikenga confirmed that the shooting was unrelated to any external attack or attempts to disrupt the burial of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, which was ongoing in the area.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the incident occurred during a police operation targeting a suspect at a security checkpoint. The accidental vehicle fire ensued after bullets hit the suspect’s car.
SP Ikenga assured residents of Nnewi that additional Joint Security Forces have been deployed to maintain peace and order throughout the burial ceremonies. He urged residents to remain calm while the incident is being thoroughly investigated.
