Gunmen Launch Early Morning Attack on Ogbaru Local Government Secretariat in Anambra State
In a shocking incident, gunmen numbering in the dozens attacked the Ogbaru Local Government Secretariat in Anambra State during the early hours of Friday. The assailants set several buildings on fire, including a town hall designated for traditional rulers, as well as key administrative facilities within the premises.
This marks the second assault on the Ogbaru LGA in just two months, following a similar attack on June 15, 2024. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported this time; however, the incident has left residents in a state of fear, as witnesses reported that the attackers shot indiscriminately into the air.
The local community is increasingly alarmed over the escalating security threats. Recently, a security personnel was fatally injured due to a separate gunman attack, highlighting the deteriorating safety conditions in the area.
Eyewitnesses described how approximately 30 gunmen emerged from nearby bushes around 5 AM, chanting as they stormed the local government facility. They set multiple structures ablaze, targeting the main secretariat and traditional rulers’ buildings. The situation escalated until security operatives arrived and began firing at the attackers, forcing them to retreat into the surrounding bush.
Local sources expressed concerns over the worsening security situation, pointing to a troubling pattern of violence. Just yesterday, a security officer known as CY succumbed to bullet wounds sustained in a confrontation with gunmen in the Amiyi community.
On August 5, two young men were killed by the same group, and prior to that, a retired police officer was brutally beaten to death.
The Anambra State Police confirmed the incident, stating that a coordinated security operation is underway in the area. Superintendent of Police Tochukwu Ikenga addressed the attack, condemning the violence and assuring that security forces are actively working to restore order.
He stated, “A joint security operation is still ongoing following the attack on Ogbaru LGA today, August 30. Some properties were damaged, but there were no reported fatalities. The attackers fled due to the superior firepower of our operatives, and updates will be provided as the situation develops.”
This recent attack follows another incident on June 15, where unknown assailants on motorcycles launched a similar strike, resulting in significant property damage. The continued unrest underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures in Ogbaru and the surrounding areas.
