A burial ceremony in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, turned tragic on Thursday night when suspected cultists opened fire on mourners, killing four people and leaving at least 15 others injured.
According to the Anambra State Police Command, the attack occurred on September 11 at Ezi Village, Ogidi, after armed men stormed the venue and shot indiscriminately at the crowd.
Police operatives from the Ogidi Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, swiftly responded to a distress call, restored order at the scene, and rushed the victims to nearby hospitals for treatment. Sixteen expended cartridges were also recovered from the spot.
Spokesperson of the Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who disclosed the incident in a statement on Friday, said preliminary findings indicated that the assault was linked to a clash between rival cult groups.
“The Command has since launched a discreet investigation to identify, trace, and arrest the perpetrators,” Ikenga stated.
Read also: Four rescued as Lagos building collapses, others trapped
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the violence, describing it as “unfortunate and unacceptable.” He assured residents that security agencies remain committed to tackling cult-related crimes across Anambra.
“Our resolve is clear: we will not allow cult clashes and other criminal elements to threaten peace in Anambra State,” Orutugu said.
The Command urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, while also appealing for public cooperation. “We encourage members of the public to provide useful information by reporting suspicious movements or persons to the nearest Police formation,” Ikenga added.
The police said updates on the investigation will be made available as events unfold.
