Two police officers have been reportedly killed and another injured in an attack on their checkpoint on Friday night. The attack, carried out by unknown gunmen, took place at Opobo Junction along Ikot Ekpene Road, Ogbor Hill, causing widespread panic and chaos.
The ambush occurred suddenly, catching the officers off guard and leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. The gunmen, armed with automatic weapons, overwhelmed the police personnel, resulting in the deaths of two officers. Another officer sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The attack prompted immediate panic among street traders, motorists, and shop owners in the vicinity. In their haste to escape, vendors abandoned their goods, scattering food items such as rice, beans, garri, meat, and vegetables across the road. The once-bustling area quickly became deserted as people fled for their lives.
Minutes after the attack, multiple patrol teams of policemen arrived on the scene, securing the area and beginning an initial investigation. Despite the heavy police presence, the atmosphere remained tense, with residents and traders staying away from the area, fearing further violence.
As of the time of filing this report, Abia State Police spokesperson Maureen Chinaka had not responded to inquiries about the attack. The lack of an official statement has left many questions unanswered, adding to the community's unease.
This incident comes just a month after a similar attack at a military checkpoint at Obikabia Junction in Obingwa Local Government Area, where five soldiers were killed and their patrol van set ablaze. That attack, also carried out by yet-to-be-identified gunmen, remains unsolved, with no group claiming responsibility. There is ongoing speculation about the involvement of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), although this has not been confirmed.
The recurring attacks on security personnel have significantly disrupted life in Aba, a major commercial center in Abia State. Business activities have been affected, with many residents and traders expressing fear for their safety. The repeated violence underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures and a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Local authorities have called for calm, urging residents to cooperate with security forces and provide any information that could aid in the investigation. Community leaders have also appealed for increased vigilance and solidarity in the face of these violent incidents. Whiel police and other security agencies work to restore order, the people of Aba are left grappling with the fear and uncertainty brought about by these brazen attacks. The situation highlights the fragile security environment and the pressing need for effective measures to protect both citizens and law enforcement personnel.
