At least eight persons, including security operatives, have been killed following an attack by suspected gunmen on Abacheke community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State on Sunday.
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The attackers, said to have emerged from nearby bushes, reportedly stormed a security checkpoint in the community and opened fire, leaving several people dead and causing panic among residents.
Witnesses said the gunmen fired sporadically as they moved through the area, forcing residents to flee for safety.
A community source described the incident as terrifying, saying many initially believed a major conflict had erupted in the area.
“People thought a war had broken out. By the time the shooting stopped, eight people had been shot dead,” the source said.
Another resident alleged that the attack may be linked to ongoing disputes surrounding illegal oil bunkering activities in the community.
According to the source, criminal groups operating in the area have been involved in rivalries that could intensify as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gather momentum.
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The source claimed that some local actors and militant groups have interests in the illegal bunkering business, making the area vulnerable to violent clashes.
However, authorities have yet to establish the motive behind the attack.
Following the incident, security has been reinforced in the affected community, with additional personnel deployed to restore calm and prevent further violence.
As of the time of filing this report, the Imo State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the killings, while investigations into the attack were said to be ongoing.
The latest violence has heightened concerns over security in parts of Imo State, where residents continue to grapple with attacks by armed groups and other criminal elements.
