Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
Three suspected members of an armed gang linked to the deadly attack on the convoy of Anambra State Governor’s Chief of Staff have been killed during a joint security operation in Aguata Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, carried out on Tuesday night by operatives of the Anambra State security outfit, Agunechemba, in collaboration with the police, also led to the recovery of weapons, a vehicle allegedly used by the gang, and other incriminating items.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by Agunechemba’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Nweke Nweke, the operation followed intelligence reports that the suspects were carrying out criminal activities in the Isuofia-Igboukwu area.
The security team reportedly tracked the group and moved in on their location. The suspects allegedly attempted to escape before opening fire on the operatives, triggering a gun battle.
“Last night, (23/06/2026) the Agunechemba Unit from FOB Aguata in Anambra State neutralised three members of a terror group that has caused considerable turmoil in the state, while several others managed to flee with gunshot injuries,” the statement said.
The outfit claimed the gang had previously disguised themselves in Federal Government security uniforms and was involved in several crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery and abductions across Anambra South Senatorial District.
The statement added, “This gang had been masquerading in Federal Government security uniforms and had previously attacked the convoy of Chief of Staff to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, resulting in casualties. Their downfall occurred during an firepower encounter with our operatives.”
Security operatives recovered a Rocket-Propelled Grenade, AK-47 rifles, other weapons, the gang’s operational white Hilux van, charms, handbags and other items believed to be connected to their activities.
Authorities describe the operation as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to tackle violent crime in the state.
The development comes weeks after gunmen attacked the convoy of Governor Soludo’s Chief of Staff, Ben Nwankwo, along the Amansea-Ndiora-Ndiukwuenu-Awa-Ufuma Road in Orumba South Local Government Area, killing two police officers and two civilians.
