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Tension erupted in Mgbakwu community in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State after youths staged a protest over the alleged killing of a 26-year-old man, Chinyeaka Ike, reportedly by operatives of the state’s Special Anti-Touting Squad. The incident, said to have occurred on Thursday night, sparked widespread anger among residents who accused enforcement agents of repeated harassment and excessive use of force. 
The protest escalated on Friday as hundreds of youths marched toward the Anambra State Government House in Awka, carrying the body of the deceased and displaying placards demanding an end to alleged abuses by state task forces. Community representatives alleged that the victim was pursued and shot after operatives stormed the area and began arresting young people indiscriminately. 
In response, the state government expressed regret over the incident and appealed for calm, assuring protesters that security agencies including the police and DSS had been directed to launch an immediate investigation into the killing. Officials also urged residents not to resort to violence, promising that the outcome of the probe would determine appropriate action against anyone found culpable. 
