By Tony Oraeki, Awka
The Anambra state security outfit known as Agunechemba has killed three members of a notorious criminal gang that had attacked the convoy of the Chief of Staff to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, resulting in the deaths of four persons: two police officers and two civilians.
In the statement signed by the Media Publicity Secretary of Agunechemba, Comrade Nweke Nweke and made available to journalists in Awka yesterday, said the suspects were killed during a fierce gun battle with operatives of the security outfit.
Nweke stated that several other members of the gang escaped with gunshot wounds, adding that the gang had been terrorizing communities across the region while disguising themselves in security uniforms.
According to him, ” This gang had been masquerading in federal government security uniforms and had previously attacked the convoy of the Chief of Staff to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, resulting in multiple casualties. Their downfall came during a fierce exchange of gunfire with our operatives.
“Following extensive intelligence gathering, Agunechemba operatives, working in collaboration with the police, tracked the gang to the Isuofia-Igboukwu axis, where they were allegedly robbing innocent residents and motorists.As our operatives approached, the gang attempted to flee.
“In a determined pursuit, Agunechemba and police units sealed off all possible escape routes within the Aguata Local Government Area. Realizing they were being pursued, the gang opened fire on the security team. In the ensuing gun battle, three notorious gang members were neutralized, while no casualties were recorded among Agunechemba operatives or police personnel.”
“Our intelligence indicates that the suspects used a white Toyota Hilux van to carry out various criminal activities, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and the abduction of innocent civilians across the Anambra South Senatorial District and other parts of the state,”
He further stated that items recovered include a Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG), AK-47 rifles, and other weapons from the suspects.
Also recovered were the gang’s operational white Toyota Hilux van, various charms, handbags, and other incriminating items.
