‎Manhunt underway after gunmen kill two police officers in Anambra

AWKA, Anambra State — The Anambra State Police Command has launched a manhunt for armed assailants who killed two police officers during an ambush along the Amansea–Ufuma Road in Orumba South Local Government Area.
‎
‎The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, announced the operation on Monday during an emergency security meeting at the state command headquarters in Awka following the deadly attack, which occurred on Sunday night.
‎
‎According to police authorities, the officers were returning from an assignment when gunmen opened fire on their convoy. The attack reportedly also involved the convoy of the Anambra State Chief of Staff, Chief Ben Nwankwo, who was returning to Awka after attending an official function on behalf of Governor Chukwuma Soludo. While Nwankwo escaped unharmed, some civilians in the entourage sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire.
‎
‎Eyewitnesses said the attackers had concealed themselves in nearby bushes before launching the ambush. Residents described scenes of panic as gunshots rang out across communities along the route.
‎
‎Confirming the incident, Orutugu said the command had intensified efforts to track down those responsible for the killings.
‎
‎“We lost two officers in the attack, and investigations commenced immediately after the incident,” the police commissioner said. He directed security operatives to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure that justice is served for the slain officers.
‎
‎The police chief also announced a special operation, code-named “Operation Fish Them Out,” aimed at identifying and arresting the suspects. He warned criminal elements operating in the state that security agencies would not relent in their efforts to restore safety and maintain law and order.
‎
‎Orutugu further urged residents to remain vigilant, noting reports that some criminal groups disguise themselves in security uniforms while carrying out illegal activities. He advised motorists and commuters to exercise caution along the Amansea–Ufuma Road, which he described as a growing hotspot for criminal activity.
‎
‎The commissioner expressed confidence that ongoing investigations would produce significant breakthroughs in the coming days, assuring residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.