Tragedy struck in Ezi village, Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, when suspected armed cultists opened fire on mourners during a burial ceremony, leaving four people dead and 15 others with gunshot injuries.
Police spokesperson in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a statement on Friday, disclosing that it occurred late on September 11.
According to him, a distress call alerted police operatives that armed men suspected to be cultists had invaded the ceremony and unleashed violence on attendees.
“This resulted in the death of four persons, while 15 others sustained serious gunshot injuries,” Ikenga said.
He added that operatives from Ogidi Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), swiftly responded, restored order, and evacuated the victims to nearby hospitals for treatment. Sixteen expended cartridges were recovered from the scene.
Ikenga further revealed that preliminary investigations indicate the attack was linked to a clash between rival cult groups.
Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has strongly condemned the attack, assuring residents that the command is committed to eliminating cult-related violence and other crimes in the state.
He urged members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police formation.
