A gun battle between local security operatives and police personnel reportedly claimed the lives of two individuals and left others injured in Anambra State on Wednesday evening.
The confrontation occurred near Izuchukwu Junction along the Nnobi/Nnewi Road.
Eyewitness accounts reveal that the clash escalated with bullets striking the fuel tank of a vehicle, igniting it in flames.
Many residents fled in fear. According to a witness, “It all happened so suddenly. Security operatives started exchanging gunfire, and during the crossfire, two passers-by were hit by stray bullets. The vehicle caught fire after being struck, adding to the confusion and terror.”
Videos circulating on social media corroborated the chaotic events, with background voices recounting the ordeal.
The spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident.
He clarified the situation by explaining, “The command is aware of the shooting incident at Izuchukwu Junction along Nnobi/Nnewi Road, which occurred around 7 PM on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. Initial findings suggest a case of mistaken identity, where local security forces mistook our officers for hostile entities and opened fire.”
Ikenga emphasized that the confrontation was not an attack by non-state actors, nor was it an attempt to disrupt the burial ceremonies of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. According to him, the gunfight began when police operatives were pursuing a suspect and encountered local security personnel at a checkpoint. Miscommunication led to the tragic exchange of gunfire.
“Unfortunately,” Ikenga continued, “stray bullets hit the fuel tank of a Toyota Venza Sedan carrying the men, resulting in the vehicle catching fire. Two innocent passers-by sustained injuries during the incident and were rushed to the hospital for medical attention. The police command deeply regrets this occurrence and is fully committed to uncovering the facts through thorough investigations.”
He reassured residents of Nnewi that the situation has been contained, with joint security forces deployed to maintain calm throughout the area. “We urge the public to remain calm as investigations proceed. Measures are in place to ensure the safety and security of everyone, especially during the burial ceremonies of Senator Ubah,” Ikenga stated.
