Unidentified gunmen have killed a land investor and abducted his wife in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State. The attack occurred on Sunday evening along Irette Road, Umuguma, while the couple was traveling to inspect a property.

According to an eyewitness who requested anonymity, the couple was ambushed while driving in their Highlander SUV, accompanied by two land agents. The masked assailants intercepted the vehicle mid-journey, creating a scene of terror.

"The man was driving with his wife and two land agents when they were attacked. At first, he managed to escape while his wife was held hostage," the eyewitness recounted. "Unfortunately, when he returned to find his wife, the gunmen tried to capture him as well. It appears he resisted, and they shot him dead on the spot before fleeing into the nearby forest with his wife."

The attackers reportedly abandoned the victim's vehicle at the scene. While the two land agents accompanying the couple managed to escape, one reportedly sustained injuries during the incident.

Police Launch Rescue Operation

Henry Okoye, spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, confirmed the incident and assured that law enforcement has initiated a comprehensive operation to apprehend the perpetrators and rescue the kidnapped woman.

"The command is aware of this unfortunate incident and has commenced a vigorous operation to identify and apprehend those responsible," Okoye stated. "The Area Commander for Owerri Urban is currently leading a coordinated search of the forested areas in Owerri West, as directed by the Commissioner of Police, with the goal of rescuing the kidnapped victim and bringing the culprits to justice."

Police operatives later arrived at the scene to evacuate the victim's body, while the search for his abducted wife continues.

This incident adds to growing security concerns in Imo State, where kidnappings and violent attacks have become increasingly common in recent months. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to help combat the rising insecurity in the region.