Police Confirm IPOB Attack on Okigwe-Owerri Highway, Launch Manhunt

Owerri, Nigeria – The Imo State Police Command has initiated a coordinated manhunt for criminal elements responsible for a violent attack on commuters along the Okigwe-Owerri Road early Thursday morning.

Details of the Attack

According to police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye, armed assailants operating in three separate groups blocked the highway between Umunna in Onuimo Local Government Area and parts of Okigwe Local Government Area around 5:00 AM.

“The attackers fired sporadically, creating panic and chaos while setting vehicles including trucks and motorcycles ablaze,” Okoye stated. “Tragically, we have confirmed human casualties resulting from this ambush.”

Security Response

Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma led a joint tactical team comprising police, army, DSS, and other security agencies to the scene following distress calls. Security forces provided immediate assistance to victims and launched comprehensive operations to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

“A full-scale search and cordon operation is currently underway,” Okoye explained. “Our teams are combing nearby forests and surrounding areas where we believe the suspects may be hiding.”

Attribution and Public Assurance

The police spokesperson suggested the attackers were likely members of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

Commissioner Danjuma strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “a cowardly act of terror,” while assuring residents of continued operations until all suspects are brought to justice.

Call for Public Cooperation

The police command urged Imo residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and security conscious. Authorities requested public cooperation through provision of credible information to aid ongoing security operations.

“We remain fully committed to restoring normalcy and safeguarding lives and property across the state,” Okoye concluded.

Credit: Daily Nigerian