Tragedy struck as four individuals, identified as staff members of the United States embassy in Nigeria, were feared killed by gunmen in the Amiyi/Eke Ochuche communities of Ogbaru Local Government Area in Anambra State.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, and the victims were reportedly ambushed while on medical outreach to rural riverine areas.
According to eyewitnesses, the assailants opened fire, resulting in the death of four embassy officials. Other members of the team managed to escape in their vehicle, which bore the insignia of the US embassy but sustained various injuries in the process.
Residents awaiting medical treatment from the team were thrown into a state of panic and confusion due to the incident.
While the police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, acknowledged the incident, he stated that details were still unclear.
He assured the public that a police team, led by the deputy commissioner of police in charge of operations, had been deployed to address the situation.
The US Mission Nigeria also confirmed the incident, expressing their collaboration with Nigerian security agencies to investigate the matter.
The safety of their personnel is of utmost importance, and precautions are taken during field trips, according to a spokesperson from the US Mission Nigeria.
Further information and updates on the incident are expected to be provided by the authorities involved.
