A fresh attack by gunmen has sparked tension in Owerri. Learn more about the incident and the rising concerns in the area.
A series of attacks in Owerri and its surrounding regions by gunmen on Wednesday led to a state of widespread panic among residents.
Several locations, including the Ikenegbu area, Wethedral Road that leads to the Government House and Okigwe Road located near Imo State University campus were targeted in the attacks. The other affected areas were Amawusa on Douglas Road and Toronto Street which extends up to MCC Road Junction.
During the shooting that ensued, Mrs. Roseline Okeke who sells fish at Relief Market located close to Fire Service Junction reported a chaotic scene as people panicked and ran for safety. According to her statement, “When shots were fired everyone scrambled in fear.”
In like manner, Miss Ukamaka Nwole whose business involves handling Point of Sale transactions near the Police Station by Fire Service Junction disclosed seeing multiple gunshots being unleashed by attackers before fleeing from the area.
Read Also: Imo Checkpoint Attack: Gunmen Kill 4 Police Officers
Police used tear gas to scatter the attackers following their assault. Imo Police Command representative ASP Henry Okoye reported that the perpetrators adopted a “guerrilla-style” tactic, initiating unanticipated assaults before withdrawing.
The response has been taken over by Police Commissioner Aboki Danjuma who is intent on capturing those responsible at any cost- dead or alive.
Okoye stated that the Commissioner of Police has taken charge and led his team to the locations. He assured that they will take action against those who are responsible for these attacks, including killing security personnel and innocent citizens.
Imo residents were encouraged by Okoye to promptly notify the police of any dubious behavior and given assurance that actions are being taken to reinstate orderliness. In addition, he pointed out that no verified accounts had emerged regarding casualties from the episode.
A comparable event occurred on Monday, when armed individuals aimed at law enforcement officials stationed in Orji Road, Owerri and deprived them of their weapons after fatally shooting four of them.
