Teenager Killed as Suspected IPOB/ESN Militants Attack Anambra Market
A 15-year-old boy has been killed following an attack by suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), at Ogbakoba Market Arena in Anambra State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 1:40 p.m. on February 21, when armed assailants reportedly emerged from a forest hideout in Amiyi community and began shooting sporadically at traders and residents. The attackers were said to have attempted to carry out kidnappings or robberies during the assault.
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A joint task force patrol stationed in Amiyi responded promptly, engaging the gunmen in a fierce exchange of gunfire. The operatives succeeded in repelling the attack, forcing the assailants to retreat into the forest, reportedly with gunshot wounds.
The teenage victim, who sustained gunshot injuries during the incident, was rushed to a nearby hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival. His remains have been deposited in a morgue pending autopsy and further procedures.
Later the same day, at about 8:30 p.m., the suspected militants reportedly resurfaced near the community, where they allegedly hijacked a shuttle bus with registration number HAL 987 XA and seized a mobile phone belonging to Mr. Kinsley Iwunze of Okpotuno Odekpe in Ogbaru Local Government Area.
Security operatives were immediately deployed to the scene, but the attackers had fled before their arrival. Authorities have since launched a manhunt to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
By PRNigeria
