Suspected gunmen attacked the home of Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Frank Mba in Ezimo Community, Udenu LGA, Enugu State, on Thursday evening around 7 PM. The assault resulted in the death of a police officer guarding the residence.
According to community sources cited by SaharaReporters, the heavily armed attackers attempted to enter the house but were confronted by the security guard. When the guard raised an alarm, the assailants shot him, took his rifle, and fled into nearby bushes. Sources suspect the same group may be responsible for the killing of Rev. Fr. Mathew Eya, a Catholic priest, the following evening in the nearby Eha-Ndiagu community, Nsukka LGA.
A local source stated, “Kidnappers have been active near Mba’s residence, abducting people twice within 500 meters of the house. These perpetrators, believed to be Fulani, had not killed anyone until this incident, possibly because they were challenged.” The source added that locals frequently spot the suspects, but the area’s weak security system has allowed them to operate unchecked. During the attack, the assailants shot the guard after he opened the gate and escaped before others could respond. Other security personnel at the residence were reportedly absent during the attack.
The source also noted ongoing security threats in the area, linking the attack to a broader network of kidnappers. Another community member mentioned that police arrested a local man, suspected of being involved due to his intoxicated state, though residents insist he is innocent and that the police action was merely to demonstrate effort. “Nobody from Ezimo would target Frank Mba. He is our pride,” the source emphasized.
The Enugu State Police have yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
