Killing of northern youths in Awka not ethnic, religion-motivated – Police

Police authorities in Anambra State have explained that the killing of seven northern youths in the state capital on Thursday has no religious or ethnic colouration.

Gunmen operating in the Ifite-Awka area had on Thursday shot and killed the youths after they were allegedly disrupted while chasing the occupant of another vehicle, which they intended to abduct.

Many have described it as a targeted killing, heightening the fear that there may be reprisal attacks.

Already, a video circulating on social media showed some northerners protesting the killing of their kinsmen.

But police spokesperson in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a press statement, said: “Anambra State Police Command, today, October 25, 2024, intercepted a protest video on the unfortunate incident that happened at Ifite Awka yesterday, October 24, 2024, that recorded the murder of five persons, with three others seriously injured.

“We wish to state that it is not targeted at any ethnic or religious group. To set the records straight, preliminary information revealed that the armed men started shooting sporadically in an attempt to escape when police were alerted to their evil plan in the area.

“The Command, not wanting to join issues with anyone or group, remains committed to the ongoing operational patrols, improved security dominance and surveillance targeted to enhance safety and nip in the bud any such or related incident in the state.

“While we commiserate with the families and friends of the victims, be assured that like other incidents recorded in the past where some of the miscreants involved were arrested and justice served, we will not rest until the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to book.”