Barely a week after the murder of Dr. Chike Akunyili and about eight others, unknown gunmen again struck in Nnewi, Anambra State, leaving many people dead and scores injured.
The attackers also reportedly burned down offices of the Directorate of State Service (DSS) and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Nnewi.
As at the time of filing this report, the number of casualties could not be confirmed but sources said they were many, comprising largely, officials of the security outfits.
Passers-by were also hit by stray bullets, eye-witnesses recalled.
The gunmen, according to sources, drove from Owerri Road in four Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs), stopped at Emecourt Road Junction where they released some gunshots which made passersby to scamper for safety, before they headed to the offices, which they also set ablaze.
“They later drove through Nkwo Triangle Roundabout and moved towards Nnobi Road.
“A military armoured vehicle later surfaced and drove round town passing through Emecourt Road. But there was no exchange of fire as the military and the gunmen did not meet,” the source said.
According to the witnesses, the attack occured on Sunday afternoon around 1:00 p.m.
It was gathered that when hoodlums stormed the offices, they overpowered personnel and set fire on the facilities.
“The attackers said they didn’t want to see any Nigerian flag standing in the area,” a source recalled
While the number of those killed or injured could not be ascertained, corroborative reports claimed there were many corpses and other persons in the throes of death, littering the spot.
The State Police Command’s spokesperson, Toochukwu Ikenga, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, confirmed an incident of fire in Nnewi, but refused to state categorically the offices involved.
He said, “At about 2pm, of 3rd Oct 2021, the command received a distress call of fire incident in Nnewi.
“The Police Operative are currently on ground and the area has since been cordoned off.
“Further details shall be communicated,” he said.