Three suspected gunmen have been reportedly killed by members of the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG) in Okija, Ihiala local government area of Anambra state.
The Daily Vendor gathered that the gunmen numbering about 15 stormed the camp of the vigilante members, thinking they were sleeping.
One of the AVG members who spoke to reporters in confidence, said the gunmen came with AK-47 riffles and different charms.
He said charms were hung on their necks, waists, hands and legs.
“When they came, they opened fire on us without knowing they stepped into the lion’s den.
“Let them continue coming we are ready for them, nonsense people,” he said.
Confirming the incident by one of the Senior Police officers who pleaded anonimity said the vigilance group would hand over the suspects’ corpses to the command, including the arms recovered from them
He added that the Command was collaborating with the vigilance groups in the state and other sister agencies to make the state safest states in the country.
Christian Aburime, Press Secretary to Governor Chukwuma Soludo who also confirmed the incident, said two of the gunmen were killed during exchange of fire and two AK-47 riffles also recovered.
He said many of the gunmen currently at large sustained various degrees of injury and bullet wounds.
He said, “At about 3:00am today, 19 June, 2023, gunmen launched attack on Anambra Security forces but were vehemently resisted.
“Two of the gunmen were gunned down during exchange of fire and two AK-47 riffles were also recovered.
“Many of the gunmen who are now at large sustained various degrees of injury and bullet wounds, while members of Anambra Security forces were unscathed.
“The need for a sane and secured environment in Anambra State remains a top priority of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s administration.
“Accordingly, Security forces remain unrelenting in its resolve to protect the lives and property of ndị Anambra, Travellers and all residents alike.”