Gunmen storm burial in Anambra, kill 4, injure 15

A burial ceremony in Ogidi community, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, turned bloody on Thursday after suspected cultists launched a violent attack on mourners.

Eyewitness reports and videos circulating on social media revealed that the assailants stormed Ezi Village, Ogidi, and began shooting indiscriminately, leaving the gathering in chaos.

By the end of the assault, four people were confirmed dead, while no fewer than 15 others sustained varying degrees of injury.

Clips from the scene showed some of the injured victims struggling for survival as they were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Confirming the incident, Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the Command has since launched a discreet investigation to identify, trace and arrest the perpetrators.

He said preliminary findings suggested that the incident was not unconnected to a clash between rival cult groups.

According to Ikenga: “Following a distress call in the late hours of September 11, 2025, that armed men suspected to be cultists invaded a burial ceremony at Ezi Village, Ogidi, Idemili North LGA and opened fire on the attendees, resulting in the death of four persons while fifteen others sustained serious injuries.

“Police Operatives from Ogidi Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, swiftly mobilized to the scene, restored normalcy, and immediately evacuated the victims to hospitals for medical attention.

“In the course of the operation, 16 (sixteen) expended cartridges were recovered as exhibits.

“The Command has since launched a discreet investigation to identify, trace, and arrest the perpetrators, as preliminary findings suggest that the incident is connected to a clash between rival cult groups.

“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has strongly condemned the incident and assures residents that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to rid the State of cult-related violence and other criminal activities.

“The Command urges members of the public to remain calm, security-conscious, and to continue to provide useful information by reporting suspicious movements or persons to the nearest Police formation.”