There was pandemonium on Monday in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area and Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State following heavy shootings by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Residents of the area scampered for safety as the gunmen, purportedly enforcing the Monday sit-at-home, shot sporadically within the boundary of both communities.
The Nation gathered the gunmen set ablaze a Toyota Sienna vehicle belonging to an unidentified indigene of Isuofia, a neighbouring community to Ekwulobia.
A resident of the area, who preferred anonymity, said: “The man was driving past the area when the men started shooting. He suddenly jumped out and fled, abandoning the car in the middle of the road.
“Unfortunately, before he could return, his car was already in flames.”
Confirming the incident, Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga said the Commissioner of Police, Echeng Echeng, had deployed men to the area.
He said: “The Commissioner of Police, CP Echeng has since ordered reinforcement teams from the command headquarters to intensify patrols around major areas like Onitsha, Nnewi, Ihiala, Aguata, Awka and other environs in the State.
“The reinforcement teams comprise Police Mobile Operatives, Counter-Terrorist Units, Special Forces and other tactical teams. They are to address any security concern that may arise and to forestall any breakdown of law and order in the State.”
Editor’s note: This is photo is for illustrative purpose
