4 policemen killed in Enugu checkpoint attack

Four policemen have been killed by unidentified assailants in Enugu State, Daily Trust can confirm.

The attack occurred on Sunday evening at the popular Four Corner Junction, Ozalla, in Nkanu West LGA.

According to a community source who requested anonymity, the policemen were conducting a stop-and-search at a checkpoint when the gunmen opened fire on them.

A video circulating on social media shows the lifeless body of a police officer in uniform on the expressway, while a police patrol vehicle burnt nearby.

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As of the time of this report, the Police Public Relations Officer for Enugu State, DSP Daniel Nduke, had not answered calls or responded to messages from our correspondent.

Similarly, Mr Dan Nwomeh, the Special Assistant to Governor Peter Mbah on Media, had not provided a comment or confirmation of the incident.

A former Information Minister and 2023 All Progressives Grand Alliance governorship candidate, Dr Frank Nweke Jr., condemned the attack, describing it as an act of wickedness.

In a statement on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Dr Nweke said, “Earlier today, the Ozalla community in Nkanu West LGA, Enugu, experienced the terror of so-called unknown gunmen who attacked policemen on checkpoint duty at the Four Corner Junction along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway. Their patrol vehicle was also destroyed by fire.

“I extend my condolences to the families of the deceased and the men and officers of the Enugu Police Command. It is unacceptable for anyone to die in such a brutal manner while simply performing their duty to protect citizens and maintain public order.”