The community known as Ogbunka in Orumba South LGA, Anambra State, has been plunged into confusion in a dramatic showdown that lasted about six hours on Friday.
Police-led Joint Security Team fought with a notorious gang of unknown gunmen.
Eyewitnesses stated that the gunfire exchanged between JSF and unknown gunmen have created tension in the community.
FCNN gathered that security forces—including elements of the Nigerian Police Force, the 302 Artillery Regiment of the Nigerian Army, the Navy, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Anambra State Vigilante Group—launched a coordinated assault on the criminals’ fortified hideout located in a dense forest. The criminals had reportedly rigged the camp with improvised explosive devices, but the superior firepower and tactical expertise of the security teams enabled them to defuse the threats and advance.
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“The noise was like thunder,” recalled a local farmer, who described the initial confusion before learning that the security operatives were engaged in a fierce battle with heavily armed gunmen. During the operation, security personnel managed to eliminate three terrorists and seize critical items from the camp, including food supplies, cooking equipment, vehicle parts believed to have been stolen, an AK-47 magazine, and 13 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. Two motorcycles were also recovered.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, affirmed that the operation was part of a broader commitment to destroy criminal networks in Anambra State. “This operation is part of our wider commitment to deny unrepentant criminals the space to cause havoc in Anambra State,” he stated, adding that the mission is ongoing as authorities work to apprehend suspects who escaped with gunshot wounds.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, hailed the joint operation for its good work and advised the community people to always be vigilant.
The incident has left many in Ogbunka on edge, serving as a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges in rural communities and the relentless efforts of law enforcement to restore peace and stability.
