Gunmen Kill Four, Raze Houses in Fresh Attack on Ebonyi Community
A recent attack by gunmen on a community in Ebonyi State has resulted in the deaths of four people and the destruction of several homes. The incident occurred in the Ikembe Ezza community within the Ivo Local Government Area.
Details of the Incident
Location and Date: The attack took place in the early hours of Tuesday, August 12, in the Ikembe Ezza Community.
Casualties: According to sources, four people were killed. Among the victims were a middle-aged woman, a girl, and two children who were reportedly burned to death inside their homes. The victims have been identified as Nwankwo Elum, Ikechukwu Basil, Bridget Nwali, and Ebenezer Nweke John.
Property Damage: The gunmen also set fire to several houses, with some of the victims' remains found in the charred ruins of their homes.
Motive and Suspected Perpetrators: The police spokesperson in Ebonyi State, Joshua Ukandu, acknowledged that the area has been volatile due to a long-running dispute between the Ezza and Ishiagu people. While there are speculations that the attackers came from the Ishiagu community, this has not been independently verified.
Previous Incidents: This attack is the latest in a series of similar incidents. Just two weeks prior, the Egumkpuma Ezza Community was attacked in a similar manner, with houses set ablaze. The police have attributed these events to ongoing communal tensions in the area.
Official and Community Response
Police Investigation: The police spokesperson, Joshua Ukandu, stated that the police were yet to get full details of the attack but acknowledged the volatile situation.
Security Deployment: The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, Adaku Uche-Anya, has deployed additional police operatives to the area to restore law and order and ensure the safety of residents.
