Commotion erupted in Isseke community and surroundings in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State during a gun battle between security forces and individuals believed to be associated with the Eastern Security Network (ESN), a security group linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The incident began in the early hours of Tuesday with gunfire exchanges, causing panic and fear among residents who stayed indoors, while traders avoided markets and other public areas to escape stray bullets.
Despite the danger, some residents who ventured outside reportedly sustained injuries before fleeing to safety.
An anonymous source and community leader informed reporters that the shooting started at night when masked security personnel descended on the area.
Regarding the reason for the shootings, the source mentioned, “The security operatives seem to be conducting a crackdown on criminal hideouts in the area, leading to these confrontations.”
“As shootings continue, residents are remaining indoors. It appears there may be a clash between suspected ESN members and the security forces. The extent of casualties, if any, is still unclear at this time,” the source added.
Anambra State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated, “The situation is being managed through joint security operations at Isseke community in Ihiala LGA. Operations targeted criminal elements and hideouts affiliated with ESN and IPOB in the area.”
“The ongoing operation has not resulted in any casualties thus far, and the public need not panic, as the focus is solely on addressing criminal hideouts. More details will be provided shortly,” SP Ikenga reassured.