Gunmen Attack Police Operatives in Enugu, Leaving Two Officers Injured

Gunmen targeted police operatives conducting a routine stop-and-search operation in Enugu State on Friday evening, resulting in two officers sustaining gunshot wounds.

According to Daniel Ndukwe, the spokesperson for the Enugu State Police Command, the attack unfolded around 9:30 p.m. along Presidential Road, Enugu. The assailants, suspected to be affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed militant wing, the Eastern Security Network, ambushed the officers as they arrived at the location.

In a retaliatory exchange of gunfire, the operatives managed to fend off the attackers, who fled the scene in three SUVs. However, two officers were injured during the confrontation and were promptly transported to the hospital for medical attention.

As the perpetrators fled, they abandoned a Lexus 300 SUV, which was later recovered by the police. Commissioner of Police Kanayo Uzuegbu has ordered a “massive deployment” of additional operatives to intensify efforts to track down the assailants and maintain security operations in the area.

Uzuegbu implored residents to collaborate with law enforcement by providing credible information that could lead to the apprehension of the attackers. Additionally, he urged individuals and medical facilities to report any persons seeking treatment for gunshot wounds, potentially linked to the incident.

The attack in Enugu State reflects a broader trend of escalating insecurity across the South-east region, with frequent assaults targeting security forces, government officials, and infrastructure. These incidents have resulted in numerous casualties and kidnappings, prompting the Nigerian government to attribute responsibility to IPOB.

IPOB, however, has consistently denied involvement in such attacks, maintaining its focus on advocating for the secession of Biafra from Nigeria. Despite ongoing tensions and security challenges, efforts to address the root causes of the conflict remain elusive.