At least two warders working with the Anambra State command of Nigerian Correctional Services were shot dead on Friday by gunmen.
Sources told Blueprint that the attackers, who shot at the officers bus while they were returning from court at about 11am in Ekwulobia, Aguata local government area, equally hijacked and drove away inmates to unknown location.
This came barely a day after gunmen attacked and killed some police and naval officers at Anaocha and Oyi LGAs respectively.
Confirming the report, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Anambra State Command, DSC Ekezie Francis, said one officer was killed while the attackers whisked away an inmate.
“Gunmen yet to be identified attacked the court duty Vehicle of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Anambra State at Nanka while conveying inmates back from court to the Aguata custodial centre. The attackers killed the Corrections officer and whisked away the inmate being taken back to the Custodial Centre.
“The gun duel that lasted for about 10 minutes was reportedly perpetrated by suspected hoodlums in two vehicles, a sienna bus and a a hilux pick-up that trailed the court duty Vehicle from the court premises. Although the armed escort put up a gallant resistance, he was unfortunately overpowered by the hoodlums who came in their numbers with sophisticated weapons.
“Meanwhile, the body of the fallen officer has been deposited in the mortuary awaiting further necessary action. The state Controller, Nwakeze Emmanuel while expressing his deep shock over the incident, has advised the public and indeed officers and men of the Command to remain calm as investigations have commenced with the collaboration of other security agencies,” he stated.
He, however, appealed to members of the public to avail security agencies with useful intelligence that will lead to the arrest of those behind the dastardly act.
