Gunmen Attack Security Checkpoint in Isuofia, Anambra: Two Criminals Neutralized, One Officer K!lled

 

In what many have described as a show of courage and resilience, men of the Anambra Joint Security Team on the evening of Thursday, May 15, bravely resisted a violent attack by heavily armed criminals at a security checkpoint in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.

According to official reports, the criminals, believed to be members of a yet-to-be-identified gang, drove straight into the checkpoint and immediately opened fire on the officers manning the post. This sudden and unprovoked attack led to an intense and dangerous exchange of gunfire between the assailants and the security personnel.

In the midst of the gun duel, two of the gunmen were neutralized by the officers — a term used to indicate that they were gunned down during the firefight. Unfortunately, the brave resistance came at a cost. One of the security operatives on duty that evening was fatally wounded during the shootout and lost his life while serving his country. In addition to the tragic loss of life, one of the operational vehicles belonging to the security team was set ablaze by the attackers, marking the encounter as both deadly and destructive.

Speaking on the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Anambra State Command, DSP Ikenga Tochukwu, confirmed the incident to members of the press. He explained that despite the surprise attack, the security officers responded swiftly and effectively, displaying professional coordination and superior firepower that eventually forced the criminals to flee.

“During the ensuing gun battle and due to the superior fire of the Joint security team, the criminals abandoned one of their operational vehicles, a Toyota Sienna and fled the scene,” DSP Ikenga said.

The security operatives not only managed to repel the attack but also recovered one of the vehicles used by the assailants, a Toyota Sienna, which the gunmen hastily abandoned as they fled into the nearby bushes. This vehicle is expected to provide crucial leads that will help investigators trace the origin and identities of the criminals involved.

Reacting to the attack, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the act in strong terms. He emphasized that such violent attacks are not just criminal but are a direct assault on the peace and security of Anambra State and its people. He described the attack as a test of the collective resolve of Ndi Anambra — the good people of Anambra State — to support and collaborate with law enforcement agencies in the ongoing fight against crime and criminality in the region.

“The act is a test of Ndi Anambra's collective resolve to work with the security forces to dislodge and eliminate criminal elements in the State,” CP Orutugu stated.

The Police Commissioner also used the opportunity to assure the public that no stone will be left unturned in the mission to bring the perpetrators of this attack to justice. He reiterated the commitment of the Anambra State Police Command to maintain law and order and protect the lives and property of all residents.

“He assured that the Command will apprehend the perpetrators behind this unpatriotic act,” Ikenga added.

Meanwhile, security has been beefed up around the area. Additional armed personnel have been deployed and are currently combing through the surrounding bushes and hideouts in a manhunt for the fleeing attackers. The operation is ongoing, and authorities have urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with the security forces, and report any suspicious activities in their areas.

“More armed operatives are currently combing nearby bushes for possible arrest of the fleeing miscreants,” Ikenga added.

This latest attack serves as a reminder of the challenges security forces continue to face in their daily efforts to keep Anambra safe. But it also highlights the bravery of the officers who, even in the face of danger, are willing to risk their lives to defend peace and justice.