Gunmen suspected to be members of the proscribed Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB) have launched a deadly attack on multiple communities in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, leaving at least seven people dead.
The violent assault occurred on Friday morning when the assailants invaded Ndi-Ejezie, Umualaoma, and Ndiakuwata Uno communities in Arondizuogu, according to police reports.
DSP Okoye Henry, Police Public Relations Officer of the Imo State Command, confirmed the incident in an official statement released on Friday. The statement revealed that "over seven persons" were gruesomely killed during the attack, while an unspecified number of others sustained critical injuries.
Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, has strongly condemned the attack, describing it as "barbaric, inhumane, and totally unacceptable." He has assured residents that the Command has deployed adequate operational and intelligence assets to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
"The CP has led a tactical unit for intense combing of the affected areas and affirmed that the situation is now under control," the police statement added. "Proactive security measures have been taken to forestall further attacks and restore lasting peace in the region."
This attack comes amid ongoing security challenges in parts of the Southeast region, where IPOB-related violence has been reported in recent months. The proscribed group has been linked to several violent incidents across the region, though they often deny involvement in attacks on civilians.
Local residents have expressed fear and concern over the deteriorating security situation, with many calling for increased protection from security agencies. The Ideato North LGA has previously experienced similar security challenges, raising questions about the effectiveness of current security measures in the area.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through established security channels.
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