Unknown Gunmen Attack Imo Community, Kill Five

At least five people have reportedly been killed in an attack by unidentified gunmen in Osina, Ideato North Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State.

A widely circulated video online alleged that the attack occurred in the early hours of Friday, sparking panic across the community. A voice in the video narrated the incident, stating, “Five people have been shot dead in Osina just now. It is happening live at Osina, Ideato North LGA. Unknown gunmen stormed here and shot five people dead. The incident has crippled economic activities. People have run to neighbouring villages for fear of being killed.”

Efforts to confirm the incident were inconclusive, as Henry Okoye, the spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, said he had not yet been briefed when contacted for comment.

This attack adds to a series of violent incidents in Imo State in recent months. On November 27, suspected gunmen abducted Fabian Ihekweme, a former commissioner for foreign affairs in the state. Earlier, on October 9, gunmen attacked Ehime-Mbano LGA, reportedly killing several soldiers at an army camp. On August 3, another attack in Umuchoke Okwe community, Onuimo LGA, allegedly claimed 10 lives.

Residents in the affected areas have expressed growing fear and uncertainty as the spate of violence continues.