There was a gun duel between security forces and individuals believed to be affiliated with the Eastern Security Network (ESN), which is associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), at Isseke community and surrounding areas in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.

This event, which reportedly commenced in the early hours of Tuesday with intermittent gunfire, instilled a sense of panic among residents.

The event forced many to remain indoors while traders opted to avoid markets and public spaces due to concerns over stray bullets.

Some villagers who bravely ventured outside their homes reportedly suffered various injuries as they sought safety amidst the chaos.

A source, along with a community leader who wished to remain unnamed, informed reporters that the shooting began late at night when masked security personnel entered the area.

“We don’t know the actual reason for the shootings, but from the information I have gathered, it looks as if the security operatives are raiding some criminal hideouts in the area, and you know such exercise would always come with skirmishes.

“As I speak now, shootings are still ongoing, and people have been forced to remain indoors. We suspect it might be a shootout between those suspected to be ESN members and the security operatives. It is not yet clear if there is any casualty at the moment,” Daily Post quoted the sources saying.

Confirming the development, the Anambra State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, told reporters, “The situation is under control as clearance operations are ongoing by joint security operatives at Isseke community in Ihiala LGA. The joint security operatives raided some criminal elements and hideouts of ESN and IPOB members in the area.

“The operation is still ongoing, and no casualties have been recorded so far. There is no cause for panic, as only criminal hideouts are being targeted. Further details shall be communicated soon.”