Key Points

• Gunmen stormed St. Andrews Anglican Church in Lilu and killed two people.

• Attackers burned vehicles, buildings and the priest’s house.

• Police increased surveillance and launched operations to find the culprits.

Armed attackers stormed St. Andrews Anglican Church in Isiokwe, a community in Lilu, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, in the early hours of Sunday.

Two people were killed. Several buildings, vehicles, and the priest’s residence were burned.

When our correspondent visited the premises on Monday, the area looked abandoned. Charred debris lay across the compound.

Residents reported that the priest’s wife was among the victims. A part of the main church building was also destroyed.

Witnesses Describe Chaos Before Dawn

Eyewitnesses recounted a violent scene. They explained that heavily armed men moved into the church compound while worshippers prepared for Sunday activities.

The attackers fired at people, torched property and destroyed the priest’s house, church vehicles, and other structures.

Many residents described shock and fear, noting that the attack disrupted morning service and sent people running to safety.

Police Increase Surveillance and Security Operations

The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the attack. The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the violence and directed joint security teams to intensify patrols and surveillance across Ihiala and its border communities.

Police officials reported that investigators are following active leads. They pledged to track down the attackers and bring them to justice.

Residents were urged to share useful information to support ongoing operations.

Community on Edge After Months of Attacks

Lilu, a border town between Anambra and Imo states, has experienced repeated assaults from armed groups over recent months.

Locals fear that Sunday’s attack marks another escalation in a pattern of violence that has unsettled the entire area.