JUST IN: Gunmen Attack Popular Trader Near Oko Poly, Police Vow Crackdown

DDM News

Tension has gripped Oko community in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State following a fresh gun attack that left a popular trader seriously injured.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the victim, known for his longstanding shop opposite the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, was shot on Wednesday night around 9pm by unknown gunmen who stormed the area.

Eyewitnesses said the trader, who was with his wife at the time, had just resumed restocking items for late-night customers when the attackers opened fire.

Initially feared dead, the trader was later revived and rushed to a yet-to-be-disclosed hospital where he is said to be responding to treatment.

A former student of the Polytechnic, Mr. Iyke Orji, who confirmed the attack, expressed shock and sadness.

He recalled the trader’s generosity to students, particularly his routine of handing out free sachet water to young footballers returning from the school pitch.

“He is a household name to many of us. During my student days, he was like a father figure,” Orji said.

“He keeps his shop open late so students can buy items at night. It’s painful that such a man would be targeted.”

This latest incident adds to a growing wave of insecurity in Anambra State, where recent weeks have seen increased violence, often attributed to criminal elements masquerading as separatist agitators.

The Anambra State Police Command has now pledged to intensify security surveillance in Oko and other flashpoints.

In a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reaffirmed the force’s commitment to restoring law and order.

According to the statement, security intelligence has revealed that some armed groups now exploit the separatist agitation climate to carry out criminal operations including robbery, abduction, and targeted shootings.

“The CP acknowledges Anambra’s legacy as a peaceful, industrious and innovative state,” the release said.

“He urges residents to support security efforts by providing credible information, distinguishing between genuine advocacy and criminal manipulation.”

Community leaders and youth organizations have also been advised to work closely with law enforcement agents to identify and flush out criminal elements hiding under pro-Biafra rhetoric.

The police emphasized that no form of violence or intimidation will be tolerated, warning that perpetrators will be tracked down and brought to justice.

As the trader fights for his life, residents remain anxious, calling for immediate action before the attackers strike again.

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