The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has directed all operational units and formations within the command to identify and arrest the gunmen responsible for the killing of two police officers during an attack on the convoy of the Chief of Staff to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Chief Ben Nwankwo.
The deadly incident occurred on Sunday night along the Amansea–Ufuma Road at about 8:30 p.m. While two police officers attached to the convoy lost their lives, Chief Nwankwo escaped unharmed. Several civilians were also reportedly affected during the attack.
Speaking at an emergency security meeting held on Monday at the State Police Command Headquarters in Awka, CP Orutugu issued a 48-hour ultimatum to security operatives to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The Police Commissioner described the attack as a direct challenge to the authority of the State and vowed that those responsible would not escape punishment.
According to him, the command has launched a special operation, codenamed “Operation Fish Them Out,” aimed at intensifying efforts to identify, apprehend, and prosecute the attackers.
He emphasized that the police would not tolerate continued attacks on security personnel and assured residents that every available resource was being deployed to ensure justice for the slain officers.
CP Orutugu also warned members of the public to remain vigilant, noting intelligence reports that suggest some criminal elements have begun disguising themselves in police and military uniforms to carry out illegal activities.
He advised motorists and commuters travelling along the Amansea–Ufuma Road to exercise caution, especially during night journeys, describing the route as increasingly vulnerable to criminal attacks.
Despite the incident, the police commissioner reassured residents of Anambra State that security agencies remain committed to protecting lives and property. He expressed confidence that ongoing intelligence driven operations would lead to significant breakthroughs within the stipulated timeframe.
The latest attack has renewed concerns about the activities of armed criminal groups operating along isolated highways in Anambra State and the growing security challenges facing commuters and public officials.
However, the Anambra State Police Command maintains that coordinated efforts are underway and has pledged to ensure that all those involved in the attack are arrested and prosecuted.
