Gunmen Kill Four, Abduct Hotel Manager in Anambra
Four people were reportedly killed, and a hotel manager was abducted following an attack by unidentified gunmen in Ifite-Awka, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State. The gunmen struck late Wednesday, firing shots into the air and sending residents into a state of panic.
The attack, which took place at several well-known locations including Book Foundation Junction, Ukwu Aki Bus Stop, “B” Bus Stop, Commissioners’ Quarters, and the Bamboo area, prompted a mass exodus of locals. Traders closed their shops in haste, and many residents fled their homes to seek safety.
Eyewitnesses told our correspondent that the gunmen shot and killed three people at Book Foundation Junction and another at Ukwu Aki Bus Stop. In addition, they stormed a popular hotel in the Commissioners’ Quarters, abducting the manager, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
A grocery trader, who asked to remain anonymous, described the chaotic scene: “Around 7 p.m. on Wednesday, the gunmen appeared and started shooting into the air. It was terrifying. Three people were killed at Book Foundation Junction and one at Ukwu Aki Bus Stop. They also kidnapped the hotel manager, and we heard they are demanding a ransom of N12 million. Initially, they asked for N20 million, but the amount was later reduced.”
Another local, Chibuike, confirmed the events, adding, “The gunmen also attacked the hotel at Commissioners’ Quarters, kidnapped several people, and made off with their cars. The violence is escalating this December. I urge everyone to stay cautious.”
Hotel officials confirmed the attack but declined to provide further details, citing restrictions on commenting.
When contacted for a statement, Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer for the state, urged relatives of the victims to come forward with information.