Gunmen unleashed terror on commuters along the Okigwe-Owerri Road in Imo State on Thursday morning, leaving a trail of destruction and loss of lives.
The attack, which occurred between Umunna in Onuimo Local Government Area and parts of Okigwe LGA, began around 5 a.m., sending shockwaves through the area.
The assailants, operating in three groups, reportedly opened fire on unsuspecting travelers, forcing vehicles to halt abruptly.
Over 20 vehicles, including trucks and motorcycles, were set ablaze during the ambush, leaving stranded motorists and residents fleeing in panic.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that vehicles en route from Owerri to Enugu and Okigwe were forced to make quick U-turns as the attack intensified.
Many travelers abandoned their journeys and retreated to safer grounds.
Though the motive behind the assault remains unclear, its aftermath has been devastating.
The attack resulted in multiple casualties and widespread destruction of property, heightening fears among residents and road users.
In a swift response, the Imo State Police Command announced a coordinated operation to apprehend the perpetrators.
The state’s Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, personally led a joint tactical team comprising the police, army, and Department of State Services (DSS) to the scene of the attack.
Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident, stating that “the Imo State Police Command, in collaboration with sister security agencies, has launched a comprehensive manhunt to track and arrest the criminal elements responsible for this heinous act.”
He added, “The attackers, suspected to be members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN, operated with ruthless precision, setting vehicles ablaze and causing significant disruption along the highway.”
Okoye reassured the public that no effort would be spared in bringing the culprits to justice.
According to him, a full-scale search and rescue operation is underway, with security operatives combing surrounding forests and hideouts believed to harbor the suspects.
