Suspected cultists launched a deadly attack on students of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State on Thursday night, killing at least two persons and abducting two others believed to be lecturers from the institution.
The violent assault occurred around 8:40 p.m. at the bustling Total and Tipper Junctions, causing widespread panic among students and residents. According to eyewitnesses, the assailants arrived on a motorcycle and in a black Lexus 350 SUV without license plates before opening fire indiscriminately on unsuspecting students and bystanders.
Police Confirm Attack, Launch Investigation
Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the incident, with spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga stating that a joint security operation has been launched to apprehend those responsible.
"The Police Operatives led by the Area Commander Aguata, complemented by the Joint Security Force comprising the Army, Navy, Civil Defence and Vigilante Operatives have taken over the scene," Ikenga said in an official statement.
The police confirmed that two victims, including a female student currently receiving medical treatment, were rescued during the operation. However, two persons were killed in the attack, while two others were reportedly abducted at Tipper Junction before the assailants fled the scene.
Casualties and Ongoing Response
According to BenriNews sources, at least four persons sustained injuries during the attack. The female victim is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital, while authorities are working to locate the abducted individuals.
"The Command has sued for calm, as the Operatives are already acting on some clues from the scene and leveraging necessary information from some eyewitnesses for the possible arrest of the hoodlums," the police spokesperson added.
This attack adds to growing concerns about campus security and cult-related violence in Nigerian tertiary institutions. Authorities have yet to identify the specific cult group behind the attack or their motives.
The Federal Polytechnic Oko administration has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident or any measures being taken to enhance security on and around the campus.
Stay connected with BenriNews for updates on this developing story.
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