- Two Enugu police officers killed during a late-night attack
- Gunmen struck a police checkpoint on Agbani Road
- Police patrol vehicle set ablaze after gunfire
- Manhunt launched for suspected IPOB attackers
Two police officers serving under the Enugu State Police Command have been killed after gunmen attacked a police checkpoint along Agbani Road in Enugu, sparking renewed concerns over security in the state.
The attack occurred on Thursday night when armed men opened fire on officers attached to the Distress Response Squadstationed at a checkpoint on Agbani Road.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
According to the police, the gunmen arrived suddenly and began shooting at the officers without any provocation. The policemen returned fire, forcing the attackers to retreat.
However, during the exchange, a police patrol vehicle was set on fire, and two officers suffered critical gunshot injuries.
They were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment but were later confirmed dead by medical personnel.
Confirming the incident, the Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, Daniel Ndukwe, said the attackers were suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
“The criminal elements suddenly opened fire on the police team without provocation. The operatives responded promptly, forcing the assailants to flee with varying degrees of gunshot injuries,” Ndukwe said.
He added that the police vehicle was engulfed in flames during the gun battle.
“Two officers sustained critical gunshot wounds. They were rushed to a hospital for urgent medical care but were later pronounced dead by attending medical personnel,” he stated.
Following the attack, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mamman Giwa, ordered an immediate and intensified manhunt for the attackers.
“The Commissioner has directed tactical and intelligence units to deploy all available resources and actionable intelligence to ensure the fleeing assailants are arrested and brought to justice,” Ndukwe added.
Security operations have since been strengthened in the area as investigations continue.
