Security Operatives Avert Bank Robbery, Disperse Sit-At-Home Enforcers In Anambra

Joint security operatives, yesterday, deflected an attack on a commercial bank, and also dispersed illegal sit-at-home enforcers, allegedly, of the Indigenous People of Brafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Nkwo Market, Ihiala, in Ihiala Council of Anambra State.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Anambra State Police Command, DSP Ikenga Tochukwu, said members of the group, armed with guns and other dangerous weapons, arrived on motorbikes and started shooting sporadically, in an attempt to rob a bank. He added that security operatives repelled the attack.

Tochukwu disclosed that no life was lost, as the hoodlums took to their heels, while a stray bullet hit the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the bank.

In a statement, yesterday, in Awka, Tochukwu said: “Joint security forces, comprising the police and military, by 12:30 p.m., on Tuesday, dispersed illegal sit-at-home enforcers, suspected to be members of IPOB and ESN, in Nkwo Market, Ihiala.

“The outlawed group members, armed with guns and other dangerous weapons, came out in their numbers on motorbikes and started shooting sporadically, in an attempt to rob a bank, and disrupt commercial activities and movement in Ihaila.

“The joint operatives responded swiftly, and the armed men abandon their evil plan and took to their heels.

“Unfortunately, a stray bullet hit the CSO of the bank on the leg, and he has been taken to the hospital where he is currently receiving treatment. No life was lost.”

He attributed successes of the Command to improved operational and strategic positioning of both human and viable assets put in place by the Commissioner of Police, CP Echeng Echeng.

Meanwhile, Tochukwu said calm has returned in the area as the police, with other security agents, have intensified patrols and improved security dominance, as well as surveillance in the state.