An attempt by hoodlums to abduct a yet-to-be-identified foreigner has been foiled by operatives of the Anambra State Police Command, News About Nigeria reports.
This was disclosed by the state police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement on Monday.
He noted that the hoodlums are suspected to be members of a secessionist group, adding that the incident occurred in the Ogbunka community in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State on Sunday.
Ikenga stated that the victim was rescued after police engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel, which, according to him, lasted several minutes.
He added that two police officers, who sustained bullet wounds during the incident, are currently receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital.
Ikenga said, “In the morning of 6/10/2024, police operatives foiled the abduction of a foreigner by suspected armed secessionist members in Ogbunka village.
“The operatives courageously engaged the hoodlums in a gun battle and rescued the VIP. Unfortunately, during the gun duel, two police officers were injured by gunfire. They are in a stable condition and are currently receiving treatment in hospital.
“Meanwhile, operations are ongoing in the area to apprehend the armed men.
“The operatives, upon arriving at the scene, found four lifeless bodies of young men in a pool of blood with suspected multiple gunshot wounds lying on the road. The victims were confirmed dead by a doctor on duty and have been deposited at the morgue.
“They were later identified as Ebuka Nwaonkwube Ekenta of Mmimi village, Nawfia, Nnatuanya Junior a.k.a. Starboy of Mmimi village, Nawfia, Aniemena a.k.a. Osama of Umuariam village, and Ahmed Auwal.
“Information from eyewitnesses and some villagers revealed that the victims were known for their nefarious activities and were constantly in rivalry with another cult group in the area. Furthermore, joint patrols with operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad have been intensified in the area.”
