A deadly assault by armed criminals on a church in Lili, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, has left one person dead and several others critically injured.
The attack, which occurred during Sunday morning worship, also left part of the church building burned and multiple properties on the premises destroyed.
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
According to Ikenga, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, strongly condemned the assault, describing it as a “heinous and abominable act” deliberately targeted at innocent worshippers. He said the attack represents a grave affront to community values, peace, and the fundamental right to worship freely.
The Commissioner expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Lili community, assuring residents that law enforcement agencies are unrelenting in their pursuit of the culprits.
“No community should be subjected to such brutality,” CP Orutugu said. “We will not allow criminals to instill fear or destabilize the peace we are working tirelessly to maintain.”
The Police Command announced that it has intensified intelligence-led operations, deployed a Joint Security Team, and boosted surveillance across the affected area. Officers are following all available leads and vowed that no resource will be spared in bringing the attackers to justice.
Residents were urged to remain calm and support the Joint Security Team by sharing any useful information that could aid the ongoing investigation.
The Command reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across Ihiala and the broader Anambra State.
Four Killed in Cult-Related Shooting in Nawfia
In a separate incident on Sunday evening, four people were killed in a suspected cult-related attack at the Afor Nawfia Market along the Onitsha–Awka Old Road.
According to police reports, the assailants, said to be traveling in a black Lexus Jeep, opened fire indiscriminately before escaping. Their identities, as well as the vehicle’s registration number, remain unknown.
The attack occurred despite recent proactive efforts by the police. Days earlier, operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad in Enugwu-Ukwu had arrested two suspects following credible intelligence about a planned gang clash, recovering a firearm in the process.
The suspects have reportedly been assisting with investigations aimed at preventing further violence in Awka and its environs.
“Although the hoodlums fled before police arrival, preliminary information gathered at the scene has provided useful leads,” the Police Command said, adding that officers are actively pursuing those responsible.
The Command reiterated its commitment to eradicating cultism and violent crime across Anambra State and promised to provide further updates as investigations progress.
