Attackers reportedly used explosives to assault Uratta Police Station in Aba, destroying parts of the facility and vehicles as security operatives launch a manhunt for the suspects.

Two police officers have been killed and three other people injured after gunmen attacked the Uratta Police Station in Aba, Abia State, setting parts of the facility and vehicles ablaze.

The attack reportedly occurred around 2 a.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, leaving the police facility badly damaged and triggering renewed security concerns in the commercial city.

The Abia State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, confirmed the incident, disclosing that two officers died during the assault. The three injured victims comprise two police officers and a civilian.

The victims were taken to the Abia State University Teaching Hospital in Aba for medical treatment.

Following the attack, Governor Alex Otti visited the scene of the incident and the injured victims at the hospital to assess the situation and check on those receiving treatment.

Explosives Used as Parts of Station Burn

Reports indicate that the assailants used explosives during the attack, damaging parts of the station building and setting a divisional patrol van and other vehicles on fire.

A source familiar with the incident also alleged that the gunmen attempted to gain access to the police armoury but discovered that it was empty.

However, the police clarified that no firearms or ammunition were stolen during the attack, dismissing concerns that the assailants had carted away weapons from the facility.

The circumstances surrounding the attack, including the motive of the gunmen and the identities of those involved, remain unclear.

Police Launch Manhunt for Attackers

The police commissioner said no arrests had been made as of Saturday, adding that security operations had been intensified to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

The command also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could assist investigators in identifying and apprehending the suspects.

The attack adds to security concerns in the state, with the killing of the officers underscoring the risks faced by security personnel in the line of duty.

Authorities are expected to continue investigations as efforts to establish the full circumstances of the incident gather momentum.