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Six suspected members of armed criminal group and a security operative were killed in an exchange fire by joint security operations in Amiyi, Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra state.
Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this on Sunday said others fled the area, with some reportedly sustaining gunshot injuries.
He said the suspects had opened fire on sighting the security personnel which lead to prolonged exchange of gunfire.
He further revealed the security operative was killed by detonation of explosive device which also injured another security personnel currently receiving medical attention.
According to Ikenga, two pump-action guns and charms were recovered from the raided camps and structures believed to be associated with the group.
He said, “The operation was carried out by a Joint Security Team comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force from the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu; Department of State Services (DSS); 302 Artillery Regiment, Onitsha; Nigerian Navy personnel from Ogbaru; and Agunachamba operatives from the community.
“Acting on credible intelligence, the team trekked for about four hours through difficult terrain and dense palm forest before arriving at an identified camp suspected to be occupied by an armed criminal group.
“On sighting the security personnel, the suspects opened fire, leading to a prolonged exchange of gunfire. At the end of the encounter, six suspected members of the armed group were neutralized, while others fled the area, with some reportedly sustaining gunshot injuries.
“The operatives recovered two pump-action guns and charms from the camps. The identified camps and structures believed to be associated with the group were subsequently dismantled.
“The operation, however, recorded the death of one security operative and injury to another when an explosive device suspected to have been planted in the area detonated. The injured operative is currently receiving medical attention in a hospital.
“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama commended the courage, resilience and professionalism of the security personnel and community-based operatives who participated in the operation despite the difficult terrain and hostile environment.
“He described the successful operation as a further demonstration of the importance of intelligence sharing, inter-agency cooperation and community support in confronting violent criminal elements and disrupting their operational bases.
“The Commissioner also commiserated with the family, colleagues and associates of the fallen security operative, while wishing the injured operative a speedy and full recovery.
“He reassured residents of the State that the Command, in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders, will continue to sustain intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal camps, recovering illegal arms and preventing violent groups from establishing operational footholds in any part of Anambra State.
“The Command urges the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, as community cooperation remains critical to sustaining the peace and security of the State.”
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