Armed men on Thursday night attacked the Ezimo community residence of Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Frank Mbah in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State, killing a police officer assigned to guard the property.
The attack occurred around 7 p.m. Witnesses said the assailants, suspected to be herders, attempted to force their way into the compound but were confronted by the officer on duty. He reportedly raised an alarm before being shot dead. The attackers seized his rifle and fled into nearby bushes.
Residents said the area has experienced repeated kidnappings and criminal activity in recent months. “Kidnappers have operated close to Mbah’s house before, but no one had been killed until now,” one source explained, suggesting the same group may be linked to the murder of Rev. Fr. Mathew Eya in neighbouring Eha-Ndiagu community the next day.
Another resident said the security presence at Mbah’s home was lighter than usual during the incident. “They shot the policeman, took his gun and escaped before anyone could respond. The insecurity here is serious,” he added.
Community members stressed that no one from Ezimo would harm DIG Mbah, describing him as “a source of pride” to the town. They also criticised a police arrest made after the attack, saying the man taken into custody was not involved in the crime.
Efforts to reach Enugu State Police Command spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, for comment were unsuccessful as calls and messages went unanswered.
Tension remains high in Ezimo and surrounding communities following the attack.
