Crime

Panic Strikes Abia Community as Gunmen Kill Two in Early Morning Attack

Published by Tope Fakinlede on November 30th, 2024.

Panic Strikes Abia Community as Gunmen Kill Two in Early Morning Attack

Residents of Umuchima in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, Abia State, are living in fear following a deadly assault by unidentified gunmen on the morning of Friday, November 29. The attackers’ surprise invasion has sparked widespread panic, causing many locals to flee their homes in search of safety.

Sources report that the gunmen targeted and killed a man named Osama, allegedly accusing him of providing information to the Nigerian Army. The army recently conducted a raid in the area, leading to speculation that the attack was in retaliation. Another victim, believed to be the commander of the local vigilante group, was also killed, though his identity remains unverified.

The attack has left the community in turmoil, with numerous residents abandoning their homes and seeking refuge in nearby towns. The fear of further violence has escalated, as people worry about possible reprisals from either the gunmen or security forces.

This latest assault follows an earlier operation by the Nigerian Army, which raided a suspected gunmen hideout in Umuchima earlier this week. The raid, conducted by troops from the 14 Brigade Army Headquarters at Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Barracks in Ohafia, resulted in a fierce gun battle with individuals believed to be affiliated with the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The soldiers successfully overpowered the attackers, who fled the scene, leaving behind abandoned motorcycles and other items.

As of now, there has been no official statement from the Abia State government or the Nigerian Army regarding the gunmen’s retaliatory attack today. The community remains on edge, uncertain of what may come next.