A chaotic gun battle unfolded on Wednesday evening at Izuchukwu Junction along the Nnobi-Nnewi Road in Anambra State, leaving two people feared dead and others injured. Reports reveal that the altercation, which occurred around 7 pm, led to a vehicle catching fire after bullets struck its fuel tank.
The Anambra State Police Command has clarified that the incident was not an attack by unknown gunmen or non-state actors, as widely speculated. According to SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the police operatives were mistakenly targeted by local security personnel who believed they were “unfriendly forces.”
Police officers were reportedly pursuing a suspect when they arrived at a local security checkpoint. A misunderstanding led to an exchange of gunfire, during which a Toyota Venza Sedan was set ablaze, and two bystanders sustained injuries.
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In a statement, SP Ikenga emphasized, “Preliminary investigations reveal that this was a case of mistaken identity. The local security forces opened fire on our operatives, assuming them to be a threat.”
He further dispelled rumors linking the incident to any attempt to disrupt the burial of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. “This was an isolated misunderstanding and not an organized attack,” he added.
To prevent further unrest, joint security forces have been deployed to maintain peace in the area, particularly as the burial ceremonies of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah proceed. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and allow ongoing investigations to uncover the full details of the incident.