Tragedy struck in Enugu State on Sunday as four policemen were brutally killed by unknown gunmen at Four Corner Junction in Ozalla. The officers were stationed at a checkpoint when the attackers struck, shooting them dead and setting their patrol vehicle on fire. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the growing insecurity in the region.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attack was sudden and fierce, leaving the policemen with no chance to defend themselves. The identities of the slain officers were not immediately available at the time of this report. The Enugu State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Daniel Ndukwe, has yet to officially confirm the attack. Similarly, Dan Nwomeh, the Special Assistant on Media to Governor Peter Mbah, has not provided any confirmation.
In the aftermath of the attack, former Minister of Information, Frank Nweke Junior, condemned the incident, describing it as a heinous act. Nweke, who is also a former governorship candidate for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Enugu, expressed his sorrow over the killings and called for urgent government action to address the escalating violence.
Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Nweke expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased officers and the Enugu State Police Command. He lamented the senseless loss of life, stating, “People should not have to die in such a gruesome manner for simply doing their work of protecting citizens and maintaining public order.”
Nweke also called on the government to intensify efforts to protect citizens and combat the activities of these violent groups, whom he referred to as “merchants of death and destruction.” He urged the authorities to provide the necessary channels and orientation for citizens to become more vigilant and to share intelligence with law enforcement agencies.
The attack at Ozalla is the latest in a series of violent incidents involving unknown gunmen in the region, raising concerns about the safety of security personnel and civilians alike. The government and security agencies are under increasing pressure to find solutions to the growing insecurity and restore peace to affected communities.