…“It was total chaos. The gunmen appeared out of nowhere in a commando-style operation and started firing indiscriminately.”
ANAMBRA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | An unspecified number of people are feared dead after unknown gunmen launched an attack near Afor Market Junction in Nawfia, Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State on Sunday.
Residents recounted scenes of panic and confusion as the attackers reportedly opened fire on unsuspecting members of the community. Several victims were said to have been fatally hit, while others fled in different directions to escape the assault.
A source said, “The armed hoodlums stormed Afor Market Junction and immediately began shooting, killing many people. No one knows the motive behind the attack; the incident has left our community devastated.”
Other residents who spoke on the incident expressed shock and called for stronger security presence in the area.
An eyewitness near the scene added, “It was total chaos. The gunmen appeared out of nowhere in a commando-style operation and started firing indiscriminately.”
Video recordings circulating online show residents running for safety as several lifeless bodies lie in pools of blood.
The President General of the Nawfia Progressive Union, Chief Daniel Okoye, confirmed the attack in a statement on Sunday, saying that security agencies have been alerted and investigations are underway.
Okoye said, “This evening, I received with deep shock the tragic report of an attack at Afor Market Junction in Nawfia. The incident led to multiple casualties caused by unknown assailants who perpetrated this senseless act of violence.
“I strongly condemn this heartbreaking incident and this attempt to disrupt the peace of our beloved community. I have contacted the relevant security agencies, and investigations have commenced.
“I urge all Ndi Nawfia to remain calm, vigilant, and to cooperate with security operatives working to restore normalcy. My thoughts and prayers are with the affected families, and the Nawfia Progressive Union stands ready to support efforts aimed at safeguarding lives and maintaining peace in our community.”
The Anambra State Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, could not be reached for comment, but a police source speaking anonymously confirmed that investigations had already begun.
“We condemn these heinous acts and assure the public that we are doing everything possible to track down the perpetrators,” the source said.
