UGA, Anambra, December 28, 2023: The Anambra State Police Command has initiated an extensive manhunt for armed insurgents believed to have infiltrated from a neighbouring state and fatally attacked two police personnel in Uga. The incident occurred on December 28, 2023, at approximately 18:30 hours (6:30 p.m.).
The assailants, disguised in military fatigue and seemingly on a kidnap mission, encountered two armed police officers approaching their location. Upon sighting the officers, the gang opened fire. The officers, who had advanced ahead of the convoy escorting them to alleviate traffic congestion, retaliated, prompting the criminals to flee. Other police personnel at the scene returned fire with caution, mindful of the numerous motorists caught in traffic.
A mobile Forward Operating Base, actively patrolling the area throughout the Christmas celebrations, swiftly responded to the incident. The law enforcement team successfully recovered a Lexus SUV used by the gang and safely defused an improvised explosive device discovered within the vehicle. Additionally, an AK-47 Rifle belonging to one of the deceased personnel was retrieved.
Commending the tireless and courageous efforts of all personnel, Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye, declared the weekend and Christmas holidays as special working days for the entire Command. He urged officers not to be demoralized by the sacrifice made by their colleagues from the Enugu State Command, emphasizing the need to draw inspiration from their bravery in confronting criminal elements.
Expressing condolences to the families of the deceased officers and the Enugu State Police Command, CP Adeoye vowed that the personnel’s sacrifices would not be in vain. He urged all officers and personnel of the Anambra State Police Command to intensify their efforts and remain vigilant. The Commissioner assured the deployment of technology to track down the criminals responsible for the attack on police personnel.
CP Adeoye encouraged the people of Anambra State not to succumb to fear but to continue with their planned activities for the yuletide season.
