Gunmen Ambush, Killing Two Police Operatives in Imo State

Gunmen launched a deadly ambush, claiming the lives of two police operatives in Imo State, situated in Nigeria’s volatile South-east region.

The grim incident unfolded in the early hours of Saturday, as confirmed by Henry Okoye, the spokesperson for the state police. According to Okoye, the assailants launched their attack on the police operatives while they were engaged in patrol duties along the Old Gariki Road in Okigwe, within the Okigwe Local Government Area.

Okoye, an assistant superintendent of police, revealed that the perpetrators, suspected to be affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant arm, the Eastern Security Network, initiated the assault by hurling dynamite at the police patrol vehicle. Subsequently, a fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in the tragic demise of two officers, while four others narrowly escaped with their lives.

Upon receiving news of the attack, Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma swiftly mobilized additional forces, including operatives from the police’s Special Tactical Unit, to the scene for immediate assessment and response.

Expressing outrage over the loss of life, Commissioner Danjuma condemned the heinous act and issued directives for intensified collaborative efforts between police forces and other security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators. He emphasized the imperative of visibility patrols, intelligence-led raids on criminal hideouts, and the implementation of stringent security measures to thwart future incidents.

In a gesture of condolence, Commissioner Danjuma extended sympathies to the families and associates of the fallen officers, reaffirming his unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. He underscored his resolve to pursue justice vigorously, promising that those responsible for the attack would be brought to account for their actions.

In light of escalating security challenges across the South-east, particularly in Imo State, where armed attacks targeting security personnel, government officials, and critical infrastructure have become distressingly frequent, authorities have intensified efforts to stem the tide of violence.

The Nigerian government has repeatedly pointed fingers at IPOB, holding the group responsible for the spate of deadly attacks in the region. However, IPOB has vehemently denied any involvement, maintaining its stance as a peaceful advocacy group championing the cause for an independent Biafran state.

In the wake of this latest tragedy, Commissioner Danjuma issued a plea to residents of Okigwe and surrounding communities, urging them to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing valuable information to aid ongoing investigations and efforts to apprehend the perpetrators.