At least three people were killed and five others injured when unidentified gunmen attacked the Isionye community, which borders Enugu Ukwu and Nawfia in the Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Reports indicate that the armed assailants, disguised as land buyers, lured their victims to the site before launching their brutal attack.
Local sources revealed that the incident occurred late Monday evening, sending shockwaves through the community as multiple gunshots rang out.
One eyewitness recounted, “Unidentified gunmen invaded our community in Enugu Ukwu, Njikoka Local Government, this evening, killing several people. They arrived in a Sienna vehicle, posing as potential land buyers.
“None of us sensed the danger until they drew their weapons and began firing. Those who had escorted them to the land were shot, and many residents who panicked and ran were wounded by the gunfire.”
Confirming the incident on Tuesday, Anambra State Police spokesman Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga stated that police had recovered the vehicle abandoned by the attackers and were actively investigating the incident.
Ikenga said, “The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Itam, has ordered an investigation into the murder of three individuals and the serious injury of five others on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 2 p.m. on Isionye land, near the boundary between Enugu Ukwu and Nawfia.
“Preliminary reports suggest that the victims were deceived into coming to the land under the pretense of a real estate transaction before being assaulted with firearms and machetes.
“The Commissioner of Police has urged the community to remain calm as police operatives work to identify the killers.
“The testimony of the injured victims, who are currently receiving medical treatment, is aiding the investigation, while the bodies of the deceased have been taken to the morgue.
“Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.”