By Kamsi Anayo
A combined team of Police operatives and local vigilante group in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State on Tuesday raided a criminal hideout in the area, shooting while his accomplice escaped.
The suspects were said to be sharing their loot after a robbery operation at Atta road, Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state when they were rounded up.
A resident of the area who pleaded anonymity said, “Immediately they saw the security operatives, they started shooting at them which led to severe exchange of fire between them.
“One of the robbers was arrested after being shot on the leg, while the other escaped with bullet wound.”
Confirming the incident, Ogidi Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Mr Ahmed Sani, said two guns, a barretta pistol and one cut to size local gun were recovered from the suspects.
“The one that was shot on his leg was arrested while the other fled with bullet wound, and investigation is on towards arresting the run away armed robber”, he said.
Some residents of the area who spoke to reporters expressed satisfaction over the development.
One of them who identified himself as Gerald Okeke said the robbers were among those terrorising the community on daily basis and urged the police to extend their dragnet to the area during the Christmas and New year festivities.
“We’ve continued to suffer period of sleepless nights, and we blame it partly to the restrictions of police surveillance within the barracks.
“Police no longer patrol the area because of activities of unknown gunmen. Robbers now capitalize on it to rob and maim innocent public at will without fear of being apprehended,” he stated.”
