By Sochima Agbo 

A deadly attack on a church in Lili, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, left one person dead and several others wounded on Sunday, authorities have confirmed.

The Anambra State Police Command, through its spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga, announced on Monday that armed criminals stormed the church during a service, inflicting injuries on worshippers and setting part of the building ablaze. Other valuables within the church compound were also destroyed.

State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the assault, describing it as a “heinous and abominable” act against innocent citizens. He said the attack represents a direct assault on peace, the sanctity of life, and freedom of worship in the community.

He assured residents that the police would “relentlessly pursue” those responsible, vowing that the Command would not allow criminals to instill fear in the state.

To track down the attackers, the police have intensified intelligence operations, deployed a Joint Security Team, and increased surveillance across the area. Citizens were urged to remain calm and assist security agencies with relevant information.

In a related incident on Sunday evening, four individuals were shot dead in a cult-related attack at Afor Nawfia Market along the Onitsha–Awka Old Road. The assailants, who arrived in a black Lexus Jeep, reportedly opened fire on traders and passersby before fleeing.

This second attack occurred despite recent proactive efforts by the Special Anti-Cult Squad, which had earlier apprehended two suspects and recovered a firearm following intelligence about an impending gang clash.

According to the police, useful information gathered at the scene is already helping investigators as they hunt the perpetrators. The Command reiterated its resolve to combat cultism and violent crime statewide, promising continuous updates as investigations advance.