A joint security team has killed six suspected members of an armed group during a raid on alleged secessionist camps in Amiyi, Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State.
One security operative was also killed, while another sustained injuries after an explosive device reportedly detonated during the operation.
According to PUNCH, the clearance operation was conducted in the early hours of Saturday, August 22, 2026, following intelligence about the activities of an armed criminal network operating within the area.
The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday.
Joint Team Treks Four Hours Through Forest
The operation involved personnel of the Nigeria Police Force’s Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu; the Department of State Services; the Nigerian Army’s 302 Artillery Regiment, Onitsha; Nigerian Navy personnel from Ogbaru; and community-based Agunachamba operatives.
Acting on intelligence, the security personnel reportedly trekked for about four hours through difficult terrain and a dense palm forest before arriving at the suspected camp.
Ikenga said the occupants allegedly opened fire after sighting the approaching security team, resulting in a prolonged exchange of gunfire.
At the end of the confrontation, six suspected members of the armed group were reportedly killed, while several others escaped with suspected gunshot injuries.
The police did not disclose the identities of those killed or publicly identify the specific secessionist organisation to which they allegedly belonged.
Operative Killed in Explosion
PUNCH reported that one security operative was killed when an explosive device suspected to have been planted around the camp detonated.
Another operative sustained injuries and was taken to a hospital for medical treatment.
The identities and agencies of the deceased and injured operatives were not disclosed in the initial police statement.
Security personnel recovered two pump-action guns and charms from the camp.
The structures and camps allegedly used by the armed group were subsequently dismantled to prevent their continued use as operational bases.
Police Intensify Search for Fleeing Suspects
The police said clearance and search operations were continuing across Ogbaru and surrounding communities to locate the suspects who escaped during the gun battle.
Residents and medical facilities were expected to report individuals seeking treatment for suspicious gunshot injuries to the appropriate authorities.
The allegations concerning the deceased persons’ membership of a secessionist or criminal organisation were based on the police account and had not been independently established.
Anambra CP Commends Security Personnel
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the courage and resilience of the personnel and community operatives who participated in the raid despite the difficult terrain and hostile environment.
Oji Ama assumed office as the 36th Commissioner of Police in Anambra State on August 10, 2026, following the retirement of his predecessor, AIG Ikioye Orutugu.
The commissioner described the operation as evidence of the importance of intelligence sharing, community support and cooperation among security agencies in confronting violent non-state actors.
He also expressed condolences to the family, colleagues and associates of the operative killed during the operation and wished the injured officer a full recovery.
The police command assured residents that intelligence-led operations would continue across the state to dismantle criminal camps, recover illegal weapons and prevent armed groups from establishing operational bases.
Members of the public were urged to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with timely and credible information.
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