On Tuesday, gunmen attacked a shop owner in Amawaire, Orji, in the Owerri North Council Area of Imo State, stealing his wares and valuables before shooting him dead.
While fleeing the scene, the gunmen also attacked a truck belonging to the Imo State Waste Management Agency and set it ablaze.
According to an eyewitness, “The shop owner bought a Mercedes Benz just yesterday (Monday). It wasn’t long after he drove to his shop that the gunmen arrived, attacked him, shot him, and stole from his shop. They took his money and belongings.”
Another eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “The same gunmen attacked a truck from the Imo State Waste Management Agency. They were shouting for everyone to stay indoors, warning against any protests. Their message was clear: no protests.”
In response, Imo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Henry Okoye stated, “Police operatives have been massively deployed to Orji. The situation is under control, and those responsible for the attacks will certainly be brought to justice.”
On Monday, gunmen were also responsible for killing four police officers at a stop-and-search checkpoint along the Owerri-Onitsha Road.
An eyewitness, a resident of Irete in the Owerri-West Local Government Area, said fear prevented him and others from knowing how many civilians were shot as well.
He recounted, “The gunmen stormed one of the popular hotels where the police checkpoint was located in Irete around 6:30 pm, opening fire on the four policemen on duty, as well as a Point of Sale operator.
“They also shot dead a female Point of Sale operator and some pedestrians who were caught off guard. All were rushed to a nearby hospital. It was horrific. Everyone nearby ran for their lives, afraid of stray bullets.
“This road has become a hotspot for them. Last time, several policemen on duty and civilians were also killed.
“The government needs to increase security in this area to prevent further incidents.”
Another local, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, noted that the attackers were enforcing the Monday sit-at-home.
He added, “I didn’t realize the Monday sit-at-home was still in effect in Imo State. I thought it had ended, but with today’s events, people will be too afraid to come out on Mondays, fearing they will be killed by gunmen.”
[VANGUARD]
