Two Warder, Shot Dead As Gunmen Open Fire On Prison Van In Anambra

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At least two persons including an official of the Nigerian Correctional Service are feared dead after some unknown gunmen opened fire on a prison van.

The incident occurred in the Ekwulobia area of Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State around 11 am on Friday, March 19, when some inmates were being conveyed back from court to the Aguata custodial center.

The gun duel that lasted for about 10 minutes was reportedly perpetrated by suspected hoodlums in two vehicles, a sienna bus and a Hilux pick-up that trailed the court duty vehicle from the court premises.

The gunmen reportedly killed the corrections officer and whisked away the inmate being taken back to the custodial center.

The Public Relations Officer of Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Mr. Francis Ekechukwu said in a statement;

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 center. 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 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 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.