Three Suspects Linked To Attack On Soludo’s Chief Of Staff Neutralised In Anambra

A joint security operation involving the Anambra State-backed Agunechemba Security Squad and the Nigeria Police Force has neutralised three suspected members of a criminal gang linked to the attack on the convoy of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s Chief of Staff.

The operation was carried out in the early hours of Wednesday along the Isuofia-Igbo Ukwu axis in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.

According to Agunechemba’s Publicity Secretary, Nweke Nweke, the suspects were members of a notorious gang accused of kidnapping, armed robbery and targeted attacks across Anambra South Senatorial District.

The security outfit said the gang had previously attacked the convoy of the Chief of Staff to Governor Soludo and was also linked to the killing of two police officers at Enugwuabo after mounting an illegal checkpoint while dressed in police uniforms.

“Last night, the Agunechemba unit from FOB Aguata in Anambra State neutralised three members of a terror group that has caused considerable turmoil in the region, while several others escaped with gunshot injuries,” Nweke said.

He explained that intelligence gathering led operatives to the gang while they were allegedly carrying out robbery operations in the Isuofia-Igbo Ukwu area.

According to him, the suspects attempted to flee upon sighting security operatives, prompting a pursuit that resulted in a gun battle.

“Agunechemba and police units sealed off all escape routes in the Aguata Council Area. Realising they were being pursued, the gang opened fire, but three notorious gang members were neutralised without casualties among our operatives,” he said.

Security operatives recovered a Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG), AK-47 rifles, ammunition, charms, handbags and other items believed to be linked to criminal activities.

The gang’s operational white Hilux vehicle was also recovered during the operation.

Reacting to the development, Governor Soludo’s Special Adviser on Community Security Prince Ken Emekayi, Chairman of the Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Internal Security Sylvester Ofodeme and Agunechemba Head of Operations Chief Chinenye Ihenko, described the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against violent crime in the state.

They said ongoing efforts would continue to target criminal networks operating across Anambra and neighbouring communities.