Gunmen storm Anambra church, kill two and raze buildings

Unknown armed men have attacked St. Andrews Anglican Church, Isiokwe, in Lilu community, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, killing two people, including the wife of the church priest. The assailants also set vehicles, the cleric’s residence, and parts of the church building ablaze, leaving the premises deserted and scattered with damaged property.

Residents said the attack happened early Sunday as worshippers prepared for service. The heavily armed attackers opened fire, injured several people, and burnt down the priest’s house, church vehicles, and sections of the church.

The Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident and said Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu has ordered intensified intelligence operations and deployment of joint security forces. He condemned the attack as a grave assault on the community and pledged that the perpetrators would be tracked down and brought to justice.

Police have increased surveillance in the area and urged residents to remain calm and provide useful information to aid investigations. Lilu, a border community between Anambra and Imo states, has been troubled by gunmen for several months.

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