Why Unknown Gunmen set over six vehicles ablaze in Imo

DDM NEWS

Gunmen

Unknown gunmen set over six vehicles ablaze in Imo State, kidnapping commuters along the Owerri-Okigwe Road.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Umuna in Onuimo Council Area, sparking fear among residents and commuters.

The gunmen, reportedly operating in three separate groups, blocked the highway between Umunna in Onuimo LGA and parts of Okigwe LGA around 5 am.

They shot sporadically, creating panic and chaos, before setting vehicles, including trucks and motorcycles, ablaze.

Tragically, reports of human casualties have also been confirmed as a result of the ambush.

An eyewitness reported that the attack appeared to be linked to the enforcement of a sit-at-home order, although the reason for the assault remains unconfirmed.

The gunmen were heard shouting, “People should obey the sit-at-home order,” as they burned vehicles.

This has raised concerns about the activities of unknown gunmen in the state and their motives

The Imo State Police Command, working in synergy with the Military, Department of State Services (DSS), and other sister security agencies, has launched a coordinated manhunt for the perpetrators.

A security source hinted that efforts are underway to track down the suspects, stating, “We are closing in on them.

But for now, not everything will be put out there for the media. You will hear positive results soon”

The incident has sparked fear among residents, with many living in dread of future attacks.

A villager noted, “Our people are now living in fear. Some of us have not gone to the farms since this happened”.

The attack comes just days after another group of gunmen, suspected to be armed herders, kidnapped over 26 passengers along the Owerri-Aba Road.

Imo State has been experiencing a series of attacks lately, especially on security formations.

In April, gunmen invaded the country home of Governor Hope Uzodinma, burning part of the building and razing some vehicles.

Additionally, gunmen attacked a police station in Ehime Mbano, Okigwe South Local Government Area, killing five officers and setting buildings and vehicles ablaze.

The attack by unknown gunmen in Imo State highlights the need for increased security measures to protect residents and commuters.

The police and other security agencies are working to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent future attacks.

Residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

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