Gunmen have killed a traditional ruler and five residents in an attack on a community in Imo State.
Gatekeepers News reports that the victims include Paulinus Ekwueme, the traditional ruler of Ochia Autonomous Community in Ohaji/Egbema LGA. The attack reportedly occurred on Friday night.
Henry Okoye, spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, confirmed the incident on Saturday, stating that security operatives were immediately deployed after receiving a distress call.
“Upon receipt of the report, the CP immediately mobilized and dispatched tactical teams to the scene… where operatives recovered the burnt corpses of the deceased,” Okoye said.
He added that the remains of the victims were evacuated to the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Owerri for preservation and autopsy.
The police also disclosed that an investigation has commenced, with efforts ongoing to track down and arrest the attackers, while additional security measures have been put in place to prevent further violence in the area.
Okoye noted that the commissioner of police has visited the community to assess the situation and reassure residents, while also expressing condolences to the families of the victims and promising that those responsible will be brought to justice.
