AWKA — A wave of gun violence has shaken Nigeria’s Anambra State capital after unidentified assailants shot dead two people in separate attacks across Awka on Sunday, prompting an immediate police response and a pledge to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Anambra State Police Command has condemned what it described as “unacceptable” killings, launching an intensive manhunt for three suspects believed to be travelling in a silver-coloured Toyota Corolla. The vehicle’s registration number remains unknown as of press time.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the attacks occurred at two distinct locations within the state capital: Capital City Road in Amaenyi and S.M. Okeke Street in Amaikwo. The victims were rushed to hospital but later pronounced dead by medical staff.
While one of the deceased has yet to be identified, the second victim has been named as Isaac Nwosu, popularly known by his alias “Azia.”
Police operatives recovered ₦7,550 in cash, a Moniepoint ATM card, and a pair of slippers from the crime scenes—clues that investigators hope will yield vital leads.
‘Direct Affront to Peace and Security’
Reacting to the attacks, the Commissioner of Police for Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, described the killings as a “dastardly act” that represented a direct assault on the state’s security architecture.
“The Command views these attacks with utmost seriousness,” a police statement read. “They are unacceptable and will not be allowed to undermine the peace and security of the state.”
The CP has ordered the immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka for “discreet and comprehensive investigation.” Security operatives have also intensified patrols, surveillance, and intelligence-gathering operations across Awka and its surrounding areas.
Community Appeal
In an appeal to the public, the Command has called upon community leaders, residents, motorists, and business owners who may have witnessed the incidents or possess credible information about the suspects’ movements to come forward.
“Any information supplied will be treated with the utmost confidentiality,” the statement assured.
The police have stressed that effective community partnership remains “critical to effective policing” and have urged residents to provide timely intelligence that could assist in apprehending the perpetrators and preventing further attacks.
A Pattern of Violence?
The Sunday attacks add to growing concerns about security in Anambra State, which has witnessed sporadic incidents of gun violence in recent months. While the motive behind the latest killings remains unclear, the coordinated nature of the attacks—carried out at separate locations—has raised alarm among residents.
Local community leaders have been urged to cooperate closely with law enforcement to restore confidence and ensure that those responsible face the full weight of the law.
Police have assured residents of their commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining law and order across the state.
This is a developing story. Crimes Chroniclers will provide updates as more information becomes available.
