Fear and uncertainty have gripped Abacheke community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State after suspected gunmen launched a deadly attack that reportedly left at least eight people dead and several properties destroyed.
The attack occurred on Saturday when the assailants stormed the community and allegedly opened fire at a security checkpoint, triggering panic among residents and forcing many to flee the area.
A community source, who requested anonymity due to security concerns, said the attackers engaged security personnel in a fierce assault that resulted in multiple casualties. According to the source, some of the victims were security operatives stationed at the checkpoint.
“They killed about eight people, including a security man. The attack was targeted at a checkpoint. It was like a war. They shot for some time and set about six houses ablaze,” the source revealed.
Beyond the reported killings, the gunmen allegedly razed about six residential buildings during the operation, leaving families displaced and worsening fears among residents already worried about rising insecurity in the area.
The source added that the atmosphere in the community remains tense, with many residents abandoning their homes amid concerns that the attackers could return.
“There is serious tension and fear in the community. Some residents have fled the area for fear of another attack,” the source said.
Authorities are yet to establish the motive behind the assault. It remains unclear whether the incident was connected to the sit-at-home order observed in parts of the South-East to mark Biafra Day or whether the attackers were carrying out an unrelated operation.
As of the time of filing this report, the Imo State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident. Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, for comments were unsuccessful.
