By Emmanuel Sixtus
Insecurity in the Southeast has got to a point where everyone is a suspect, especially when on a mufti with a gun. Unknown gunmen in the region now move on mufti, and likewise policemen who are working under cover.
In Anambra State, for the first time in recent memory, a different team of security officers on a patrol exchanged fire for mistaken identity.
On the evening of Wednesday, November 20, 2024, gunfire erupted near Izuchukwu Junction along Nnobi/Nnewi Road in Anambra State, sending shockwaves through the local community. Early reports suggest the shooting stemmed from a case of mistaken identity involving security personnel and police officers, intensifying tensions during a sensitive time of mourning for the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
The Anambra State Police Command reported that the conflict began when local security mistakenly identified undercover police officers as threats. This error spiralled into a gunfight, resulting in bullets hitting a Toyota Venza’s fuel tank, causing it to catch fire. Eyewitnesses recounted a chaotic scene with residents fleeing in panic. Tragically, two innocent bystanders were caught in the crossfire and were swiftly taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The state is in the heat of tension caused by the activities of unknown gunmen who have been terrorising the state and the entire region of the Southeast.
The community lost a prominent politician who had been instrumental to the security of the community; as a result, security activities intensified in the community, leading to mistaken identity.
Reacting to the incident in the state, the commissioner of police in the state claimed he was aware of the incident, although he didn’t speak directly to the press.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Public Relations Officer for the Anambra State Police, confirmed that this clash was unrelated to any non-state actors or intentional disruptions of Senator Ubah’s burial activities. He explained that the incident occurred as security operatives were pursuing a suspect during an ongoing investigation.
The clarification was crucial to avoid spreading fear in the community as they mourn the loss of Dr. Sen. Patrick Ifeanyi Uba, who died while serving the community in the Senate.
In light of the situation, police have dispatched joint security forces throughout Nnewi to maintain peace and order as the burial ceremonies for Senator Ubah approach. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm while investigations continue to clarify the events that led to the incident.
Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, a key figure in Anambra politics, passed away in London earlier this year and is scheduled to be buried on Friday, November 22. The increased police presence aims to prevent any further disturbances during the ceremonies.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in coordination among security agencies and highlights the urgent need for better communication to avert such unfortunate situations in the future.
The state needs to ensure security is maintained in the community to enable mourners who are trooping in the country home of the late Senator to come and go in peace.
