Four Police officers and Civilian Killed in Imo State Attack

In a tragic incident on Monday evening, four police officers stationed at a stop-and-search checkpoint along the Owerri-Onitsha Road near the Mobile Police (MOPOL) headquarters in Owerri, Imo State, were shot dead by unknown gunmen. The attack, which occurred around 6:30 p.m., also claimed the life of a nearby female vendor and left several others injured.

Eyewitnesses reported that the gunmen arrived at the checkpoint near SaveMore Market Place in Irete, Owerri, and opened fire indiscriminately on the officers and civilians in the vicinity. The sudden and violent assault resulted in the immediate deaths of the four officers and the vendor, creating a scene of chaos and fear. Those injured in the attack were quickly transported to nearby medical facilities for urgent care.

Police Command’s Response and Condemnation

Following the brutal attack, the Imo State Police Command issued a statement condemning the killings. The State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, expressed profound grief over the incident and labeled the act as a senseless attack on peace and order. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Henry Okoye, conveyed the commissioner’s vow to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice.

“The commissioner of police expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident and vowed that the command will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators are all arrested and brought to justice,” Okoye stated. He emphasized that the command’s tactical units, along with other security agencies, have been mobilized to track down those responsible for the heinous crime.

Security Measures and Community Reactions

In the wake of the attack, heightened security measures have been implemented across Owerri and surrounding areas. The police have increased patrols and checkpoints in a bid to prevent further violence and reassure the public of their safety. The community, still in shock from the incident, has called for more robust security measures to protect both law enforcement officers and civilians.

Community leaders and residents have expressed their condolences to the families of the fallen officers and the civilian victim. They have urged the police and government to take decisive actions against the perpetrators and address the rising insecurity in the region. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the need for improved security infrastructure and strategies to combat violent crime in Imo State.

The Imo State Police Command continues to appeal to the public for any information that could assist in the investigation and apprehension of the gunmen. They have assured the community that every effort is being made to restore peace and prevent such tragedies from recurring.

Tragic Killing of Security Officers Highlights Daily Risks

The recent tragic incident involving the killing of security officers in the southeast underscores the grave dangers and sacrifices that police officers face daily in their unwavering commitment to public safety. This brutal attack serves as a painful reminder of the risks law enforcement personnel embrace as they work tirelessly to protect communities.

Commissioner of Police (CP) Danjuma has expressed deep condolences to the families of the fallen officers and prayed for the repose of their souls. In his statement, CP Danjuma called on the general public, especially residents of Ogbaku, to come forward with any information that could help apprehend the perpetrators. He urged citizens to report any leads to the nearest police station, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in bringing the assailants to justice.

Imo State Police Command Dismisses Fake News About Avu Market Fire

In a related development, the Imo State Police Command has dismissed as fake news a recent viral video circulating on social media, which falsely claimed that Avu Market had been set ablaze by angry protesters. The command clarified that the video was a deliberate attempt by mischief-makers to mislead the public.

Police spokesperson Okoye urged the public to disregard the misleading video, noting that it depicted an incident from 2023 when a fire outbreak occurred at the market. He assured the public that the situation at Avu Market remains calm and that no such protest-related arson has taken place. Okoye also mentioned that the state’s commissioner of police has tasked the State Intelligence Department with expediting efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for spreading the false information.

The Imo State Command’s swift action in addressing these rumors highlights the importance of accurate information and the detrimental impact of misinformation on public perception and safety. The authorities continue to call for vigilance and cooperation from the public in combating the spread of fake news.