By Gloria Attah
Two police officers were killed on Sunday night after gunmen ambushed a police team returning from an assignment along the Amansea–Ndiora–Ndiukwuenu–Awa–Ufuma Road in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers, who were reportedly hiding in a nearby bush, opened fire on the officers as they approached, triggering panic among residents and road users in the area.
A tricycle rider who witnessed the aftermath of the attack said he was returning from Ezira when he heard gunshots and quickly turned back to avoid being caught in the crossfire.
“The incident happened last night. I was coming from a journey when I suddenly heard gunshots. I left my tricycle and retreated to safety,” he said.
“After the shooting stopped, I continued my journey and got to the scene, where I saw two police officers lying lifeless on the road.”
A video circulating on social media showed the bodies of the slain officers beside their patrol vehicle, while a voice in the background called on authorities to respond to the incident.
Confirming the attack on Monday, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, said the officers were ambushed while returning from an official assignment.
“A team of police officers was returning from an assignment when armed men opened fire on them. Sadly, we lost two officers in the attack,” he said.
Orutugu disclosed that the command had launched an investigation and intensified efforts to track down those responsible.
He added that security operatives had been working on the case since Sunday night and vowed that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
The commissioner also announced plans to visit the scene of the attack to assess the situation and review security measures aimed at preventing similar incidents.
He further advised motorists and residents to be vigilant and avoid stopping at suspicious checkpoints not manned by clearly identifiable police personnel and official police vehicles.
“Whenever you approach a checkpoint without police vehicles or clear police identification, exercise caution. Turn back and alert the nearest police formation or contact the police immediately,” he warned.
