Gunmen Launch Deadly Attack on Imo State Local Government Headquarters, Kill Two Operatives, Set Vehicles Ablaze
Tragedy struck in Imo State on Tuesday night as gunmen attacked the Isiala-Mbano Local Government Area headquarters, leaving a trail of death and destruction in their wake. Two local vigilante members who were guarding the premises were killed in the attack, while several others sustained injuries and fled the scene.
According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen arrived at the secretariat around 8:30 p.m. and opened fire indiscriminately, killing the two vigilante members on duty. They then set part of the council building ablaze, including several vehicles parked within the premises. The attack was described as “brutal and senseless” by witnesses, who expressed shock and horror at the violence.
The attack has raised a heightened fear in Umuelemai, the local government headquarters, as residents have sought refuge in nearby villages. Many are now living in fear of further attacks, and there are concerns about the ability of the security forces to protect them.
This incident is the latest in a series of attacks in the state, with gunmen also targeting the Obowo Divisional Police Headquarters on Tuesday night and early hours of Wednesday. In the Obowo attack, a police officer was killed, and the divisional headquarters was set ablaze. The gunmen had earlier attacked a police officer’s residence at NEPA Junction in Umulogho community, killing him and setting his belongings on fire.
The police have confirmed the incidents and deployed tactical teams to apprehend those responsible for the attacks. However, the extent of casualties in the second attack is still unknown due to fear of approaching the burned facility.
The attacks have left the community in a state of panic, with many calling for increased security measures to protect lives and properties. There are also concerns about the motive behind the attacks, with some speculating that they may be linked to a broader political or ethnic agenda.
The Imo State government has condemned the attacks and promised to do everything possible to bring those responsible to justice. However, for now, the people of Isiala-Mbano and Obowo are left to pick up the pieces and mourn the loss of their loved ones.
