Gunmen Attack Human Rights Activist, Family in Anambra
Gunmen in Anambra State have attacked Emeka Umeagbalasi, a prominent human rights activist and chairman of the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety), along with members of his family.
Umeagbalasi revealed that the first incident occurred on November 27, when armed assailants shot sporadically and forcibly took his Mitsubishi Hilux from his driver, Comrade Chike Umeh, at gunpoint. While the vehicle was initially recovered, the gunmen seized it again, demanding N250,000 to return it and to ensure the peaceful conduct of his father-in-law’s funeral.
The gunmen struck again at Ezinifite Roundabout in Aguata Local Government Area, forcing Umeagbalasi’s wife, Blessing; his 4-year-old son, Chimdiebube; their 13-year-old house help, Somtochukwu Okafor; and the driver out of the vehicle at gunpoint.
Reports indicate that the gunmen also hijacked other vehicles, including a Prado SUV and another SUV, and abducted several occupants. The assailants reportedly operated for over eight hours, effectively holding nine communities in the area under siege.
The incident was reported to the Ekwulobia Police Division. In response, the Anambra State Police Command confirmed the recovery of a stolen blue Hilux vehicle.
Intersociety has since written to the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, urging the release of the snatched vehicle and other domestic items taken during the attacks.
The situation has raised concerns about the growing insecurity in the region, with calls for intensified efforts to curb such criminal activities.
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