By Izunna Okafor, Awka
Following the deadly attack at Oko in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, over the weekend, led a high-powered investigation team on a spot assessment of the crime scene, as part of immediate efforts to unravel the perpetrators of the heinous crime and prevent future recurrence.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed in a statement to newsmen on Friday.
Recall that on Thursday night, June 19, yet-to-be-identified gunmen suspected to be cultists launched a brutal attack at the popular Total Junction and Tipper Junction in Oko, where they reportedly killed two persons, abducted two others, and injured two more individuals — including a young lady — who are now receiving treatment in the hospital.
In response to the incident, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Orutugu, alongside operatives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Tactical Teams, and the Operations Department, visited the affected locations for a firsthand evaluation of the scene.
During the visit, he also interacted with some residents of the community, the Chairman of Orumba North Local Government Area, Hon. Casmir Nwafor, and key stakeholders from the community, including the leadership of the Oko Polytechnic Students Union Government.
The Police boss, while engaging the stakeholders, sought deeper cooperation from community members, residents, and students to help expose criminal elements operating in the area, especially those behind the Thursday night horror. He reiterated the importance of local intelligence and assured that any useful information provided to the Police would be treated confidentially and acted upon swiftly.
Responding, the community leaders and student representatives pledged their full support to the Police. They agreed to actively share intelligence that could lead to the identification and arrest of the criminals, support the investigative process, and partner with law enforcement to enhance overall security across the area. They also acknowledged the urgency of restoring peace in Oko, especially given its significance as a densely populated student community.
From the crime scene, CP Orutugu proceeded to the hospital where the surviving victims of the attack are being treated. He interacted with the hospital’s Management, empathized with the victims, and offered the Command’s support to ensure their treatment is adequately handled.
He further directed the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to Oko and its environs, with a specific focus on student hostels, school premises, and other areas with high population density. The Police Commissioner said this reinforcement would bolster security presence, improve surveillance, and deter criminal activity in the area.
CP Orutugu reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to not only thoroughly investigating the incident but also ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families. He described the attack as deeply saddening and unacceptable and assured that the Police would leave no stone unturned in apprehending all those responsible.
While appealing for calm, the Commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to sustain peace and security in the area.
More photos from the visit:
