Panic gripped the Iboko community in the Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State on Tuesday as gunmen attacked the area, resulting in the death of at least two security guards.
According to an eyewitness who preferred anonymity, the gunmen disguised themselves as locals, purchasing food items from various locations in the community before launching their attack.
A judicial worker at the Ebonyi State High Court revealed that she narrowly escaped being attacked by the assailants.
The attackers reportedly first targeted a popular filling station in Iboko, where they refueled their vehicles before fatally shooting two individuals.
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Subsequently, they confronted members of the Ebubeagu operatives (now known as Neighbourhood Vigilante members), resulting in the death of one Fredrick Idike and another individual.
Additionally, two vigilante members sustained severe injuries from axe attacks and were later pronounced dead at the mortuary.
The incident caused widespread fear and prompted traders at the Iboko Market to flee for safety, leading to the market’s closure for the day.
Confirming the incident, the Ebonyi State Police Command stated that two lives were lost in the attack, emphasizing that investigations into the matter are ongoing.
“The incident indeed occurred, resulting in the loss of two lives. However, our investigation is still ongoing,” stated Ukandu Joshua, the Ebonyi Police Public Relations Officer.
