The Imo State Police Command has reported that suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) carried out attacks on the Isiala Mbano Local Government Headquarters and the Obowo Police Station.
In a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Henry Okoye, it was confirmed that the attacks resulted in the deaths of two vigilante personnel and a police constable.
Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, in collaboration with leaders from various security agencies, has launched a coordinated response to address the situation.
The statement further read, “The assault by these hoodlums, who came in large numbers, firing sporadically and throwing improvised fuel bombs, caused minimal damage, including the destruction of vehicles and parts of both the local government headquarters and the police division building.
“Frantic efforts were made to repel the attackers but unfortunately two vigilante personnel lost their lives. Also a Police Constable was gruesomely murdered in his house in Obowo. The loss of these brave individuals underscores the grave risks faced by those dedicated to protecting our society.
“In the wake of the cowardly attacks, security forces have been massively deployed and equipped with advanced operational resource to crack down on the miscreants responsible and make them face the full wrath of the law.
“More so, a high-level assessment was conducted on 04/09/2024 by the Commissioner of Police together with the Commander 34 Artillery Brigade, Brig. Gen. UA Lawal, Commander Oguta Naval Base, Commodore MB Salisu, SSA on Security Affairs, Rtd General Joseph Ogbonna, Commandant NSCDC, CC. Mathew Ovey, the Acting Sole Administrator of Isiala Mbano, Hon. Chika Okirike, and the Chairman of the Isiala Mbano Vigilante Group during which they strongly condemned the senseless attacks and vowed to implementing enhanced security measures to prevent future incidents.
“The security chiefs addressed the situation with determination and urged vigilante groups and serving personnel to persevere in the midst of security challenges. They emphasized the need for continued collaboration to reduce crime to its barest minimum in the State and called on community leaders to mobilize support in the ongoing fight against violence. In addition, residents are encouraged to assist security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities or individuals.
“To this end, the Commissioner of Police reaffirms the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. On behalf of the security agencies, he extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen security personnel and assures the public that every effort will be made to enhance peace and security in the State.”