Police operative, 6 gunmen killed during shootout in Anambra

The joint team, he said, comprised police operatives from the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu; personnel of the State Security Service; officials of the 302 Artillery Regiment in Onitsha; officers of the Nigerian Navy from Ogbaru; and members of the Agunaechemba Vigilante group in the community.

Ikenga said, in response to a tip-off, the team trekked for about four hours through difficult terrain and dense palm forest before arriving at the suspected criminal group’s hideout.

“On sighting the security personnel, the suspects opened fire, leading to a prolonged exchange of gunfire.

“At the end of the encounter, six suspected members of the armed group were neutralised, while others fled the area, with some reportedly sustaining gunshot injuries,” he said.

The spokesman said the security operatives recovered two pump-action guns and charms and then dismantled the camps and structures believed to be associated with the group.

“The operation, however, recorded the death of one security operative and injury to another when an explosive device suspected to have been planted in the area detonated,” he said, without providing the identity of the injured and slain operatives.  (Premium Times)