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Fear has gripped residents of Ekoli Community in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State after suspected political thugs attacked the area, killing one man and leaving others injured.
The incident happened on Wednesday, ninth July two thousand and twenty-five, at Ndenworo Village in Ekoli-Edda. The victim, identified as Nnachi Uzor, was shot dead in his house by the attackers.
According to the Ebonyi State Police Command, the armed men also destroyed property worth millions of naira during the violent attack. The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the sad incident to journalists in Abakiliki on Thursday.
SP Ukandu said the Police got reports of gunshots in the community and quickly sent officers there to restore peace and stop further violence. He said,
“Yes, we got information about gunshots in Ekoli Community and a Police team has been mobilised to the area. Unfortunately, one person was killed in the shooting. We have also arrested two suspects and are currently investigating the incident. Police officers have also been deployed to the area to ensure peace.”
A resident of the community, Chimaobi Ede, told PRUDENTJ2.COM that the attackers belong to a group popularly known as “Catcham Boys.” He said they came in a group, went straight to Mr Uzor’s house, and shot him dead before fleeing the scene.
Mr Ede said, “They came in a group and moved straight to Udu’s house and one of them shot him dead. His remains have been deposited at a morgue.”
Another community leader, Etta Egor, expressed deep sadness over the killing. He described the “Catcham” vigilance group as a threat to peace in the area. He said they have been causing trouble and putting fear in the hearts of people.
Mr Egor called on security agents and the government to step in quickly and arrest all those involved in the crime. He said,
“The killing was bad. We call on the security agents to come to our assistance and ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.”
Meanwhile, it was gathered that the area has been facing tension for some time now. Just last month, a former Chairman of the local government, Dr Eni Uduma-Chima, and his younger brother were banished from the community for seven years. Some community members accused them of promoting communal wars and causing division in Ekoli-Edda.
The Police have promised to continue their investigation and hunt down all other suspects linked to the attack. Residents are being urged to remain calm but to report any strange movements to the authorities.
For now, the people of Ekoli-Edda can only hope that peace will return to their community soon and that those behind the violence will face justice.
