About five persons were killed in a clash between men of the Nigerian military and some unidentified assailants in Isuofia community, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.
It was gathered that the gunmen who were large in number attacked the military checkpoint located at the Afor-Uzo Junction in Isuofia, Saturday morning.
Sources claimed that about two soldiers and four of the gunmen were killed in the fierce battle, however, the police said five of the gunmen were neutralised.
Isuofia is the hometown of the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
It was gathered that the hoodlums gained access into Isuofia community through a direct entrance by Umuona community.
The source said the hoodlums first attacked the soldiers and killed two of them before the army gave them a chase and neutralised four of them in the process.
Confirming the incident, the state police spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the hoodlums were repelled through a joint security team of the military, police and other security agencies.
He said, “Anambra State security forces comprising the military, police and other security agencies neutralised five unknown gunmen in Umuona, Isuofia, Aguata LGA and recovered one grey Toyota Venza jeep with registration number KRD 344 BT.
“This followed a distress call at about 10:30am today November 12, 2022 along Afor market in Isuofia, where some hoodlums attacked a security checkpoint in the area.
“The joint forces responded swiftly, engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel and neutralised five of the armed men while others escaped with dark blue Lexus 470 jeep without plate number from the scene with bullet wounds.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Echeng Echeng, while charging the operatives to sustain the tempo against the onslaught on criminal elements, ordered intensified patrols and improved operational positioning to respond to distress calls in the state.
“Further details shall be communicated please as operations is still ongoing.”
Also, the state Commissioner for Information, Paul Nwosu, in his reaction, said a gang of gunmen struck the Nigerian Army checkpoint at Afor-Uzo Junction, Isuofia but were unfortunately neutralised by security agents.
“The Government of Anambra State wishes to reassure the people of their safety, especially during this yuletide season.
“If you see something; please say something to help our vigilant security agents protect you better. Call: 09017280990, 07039896429, 09167514891, 09076237441, 09168041120, 08093175528, 08124153139. Let’s take back our state,” he added.
