They Were Surprised When They Saw I Was Alive, One Asked “Are You Alive Or You Need 1 Bullet-Anyanwu

Kenneth Anyanwu, a victim of the now-disbanded Tiger Base Unit in Imo State, has shared a chilling account of his alleged encounter with officers attached to the controversial security outfit, claiming he narrowly survived an ordeal that left him fearing for his life.

Anyanwu spoke during an interview with DW News, on Friday, 12 June, 2026, where he recounted events surrounding his arrest and detention following an incident at a village meeting. 

His testimony forms part of a series of allegations that have continued to emerge against the former police unit, which faced widespread criticism over claims of torture, unlawful detention, and other human rights violations before it was scrapped.

According to Anyanwu, he was assaulted by an officer during the meeting and subsequently taken away by security operatives. 

He alleged that after being beaten, he was bundled into the trunk of a vehicle and left there for hours. The victim said he was in severe pain and uncertain whether he would survive the ordeal.

Recalling the moment officers eventually opened the trunk, Anyanwu alleged that they appeared shocked to find him alive.

“They were surprised when they opened the boot and saw that I was alive. One had the guts to ask me, ‘Are you still alive or do you still need one bullet?’” he said.

The remark, he claimed, left him convinced that his life was in danger. He said the experience remains deeply traumatic and continues to affect him years later.

The Tiger Base Unit, which operated in Imo State, became the subject of numerous complaints from residents and human rights advocates who accused its operatives of engaging in abuses. 

Several victims have since come forward with accounts of alleged mistreatment while in custody.