Imo State Police Command has confirmed the weekend’s killing of five residents in Ajanaumuna, Ezinachi, Okigwe Local Government Area of the state, about 10.30 p.m. on August 22.

Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has deployed a tactical team of the command in synergy with other sister security agencies and local vigilante groups to apprehend the assailants.

This was contained in a statement issued Monday afternoon by the command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye.

Okoye disclosed that the gunmen set ablaze the residence of the youth security leader and five motorcycles after the killings, adding that the bodies of those killed had been deposited in a morgue, while one who sustained gunshot wounds is in a hospital receiving treatment.

Okoye said: “During the attack, Edeh George ‘m’, a member of the local youth security team, together with four villagers identified as Emeka Ezeagwula ‘m’, Chikodi Ezeagwula ‘f’, Chidi Chileke ‘m’, and Ejike Nwankwo ‘m’, were fatally shot. The assailants further set ablaze the residence of the youth security leader and destroyed five motorcycles.”

He explained the efforts of the police after receiving the information of the attack, saying, “Upon receipt of the distress report, police operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene, evacuated the victims to General Hospital, Okigwe, where doctors confirmed them dead on arrival. Their remains have been deposited at the hospital mortuary, while one survivor is currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, who is personally leading an intense operation in Okigwe alongside other security agencies, condemned the heinous act and assured that no stone will be left unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice. He stressed that those behind the attack will be made to face the full weight of the law.
“The CP also prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased victims, wished the injured survivor a speedy recovery, and prayed that God grant the affected families the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), urged the residents of Okigwe to remain calm as security has been beefed up around the vicinity, providing phone numbers to call in case of useful information.
“The Imo State Police Command urges residents to remain calm as security has been reinforced in Okigwe and its environs. Members of the public are further encouraged to support the Police with credible and timely information that can aid ongoing investigations by reporting to the nearest Police Station or via 0803 477 3600,” he urged the public.