Gunmen kill 4, kidnap hotel manager in Anambra attack

Four individuals were feared dead following an attack by armed assailants in the Ifite-Awka area of Awka South Local Government, Anambra State, on Wednesday night.

The gunmen, who caused widespread panic by firing sporadically into the air, left residents fleeing for safety and forced businesses to shut down.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers struck multiple locations, including Book Foundation Junction, Ukwu Aki Bus Stop, “B” Bus Stop, Commissioners’ Quarters, and the Bamboo area.

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A local trader, speaking anonymously, described the chaos: “It was a panic situation around 7 pm yesterday (Wednesday) when the hoodlums suddenly arrived and started shooting into the air. They shot and killed three people at Book Foundation Junction and one person at Ukwu Aki Bus Stop.”

The attackers also stormed a hotel at Commissioners’ Quarters, where they abducted the manager, whose location remains unknown.

“We heard they were demanding N12 million ransom for his release, though the hotel workers said the initial demand was N20 million before it was reduced,” the trader added. “I was at my shop when we heard gunshots. Everyone panicked and ran for safety. Traders locked their shops hurriedly, and as of today, many shops remain closed.”

Another resident, Chibuike, corroborated the incident, stating, “About three people were killed at Ifite yesterday night—one at ‘B’ Bus Stop and the others at Book Foundation Junction. They also struck at a hotel in Commissioners’ Quarters, kidnapped three people, and left with their cars. This morning, one person was shot dead around the Ukwu Aki area.”

Reflecting on the growing violence, he added, “This December is becoming very bloody. May God have mercy. Everyone should be cautious about their movements.”

While some hotel staff confirmed the incident, they declined further details, citing a lack of authorisation.

In response, Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, said, “Thank you for this information, but if you know the relatives of these victims, let them come forward, please.”