Gunfire rocks Anambra Community, one IPOB member killed

A suspected member of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), was shot dead on Monday during a gun duel with local vigilantes in Ezinifite, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The confrontation reportedly occurred around 7:30 a.m. when over 15 armed men stormed the community from neighbouring Imo State through the Amalum village boundary.

According to members of the Agunechamba Vigilante Group, the gunmen were believed to be planning an attack on the community before being intercepted.

A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, leading to the death of one of the suspected assailants, while others escaped into nearby bushes with gunshot wounds.

A pump-action rifle was recovered from the deceased, whose body has been deposited at the Ezinifite mortuary.

Security sources confirmed to Zagazola Makama, a security expert, that police tactical teams were immediately deployed to the scene but arrived after the attackers had fled.

The area has since been cordoned off, with joint operations between the police and local vigilantes ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.

Authorities commended the vigilante group for their swift response and urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that security agencies are working to ensure the area remains safe.