BY SUNNY DAVID
Yesterday’s sit-at-home order in Anambra State descended into chaos as unknown gunmen launched simultaneous attacks, leaving at least five people dead and sparking widespread fear.
The violence, which unfolded between 8am and 10am, targeted security personnel attached to the Ukpo President-General (PG).
Three security men were shot and killed in a hail of bullets.
The PG, whose identity was not disclosed as at press time, was critically injured and rushed to a nearby hospital. “We are praying for his recovery,” said a community leader, adding that “this senseless violence has left our community shaken.”
In a separate incident, gunmen attacked Ukpo Community at the Ukpo roundabout, in Dunukofia Local Government Area of the statete killing one vigilante group member and a motorcycle rider.
“It was chaos,” said an eyewitness. “The attackers came out of nowhere, shooting indiscriminately. Shouting no Biafra, no freedom. We are still trying to process what happened.” A police source who pleaded anonymity said, “The Police have launched an investigation into the attacks and are working to apprehend the perpetrators.
“We condemn these heinous acts and assure the public that we will do everything possible to bring the culprits to justice,” said the source.
Residents of Abatete and Ukpo were in shock, with many calling for increased security presence.
“We are tired of living in ffear”, said a local resident. “The government must do something to protect us.”
“The incidents occurred within a two-hour window, with the first attack happening at 8am in Abatete and the second at 8:45 am in Ukpo,” a source said
