Imo State police drones were deployed to track criminal hideouts in the bushes and farmlands of Owerri West Local Government Area, prompting farmers to return to their fields and land buyers to resume activity. The brief relief was short‑lived as gunmen, who had previously gone quiet, re‑emerged, this time more daring and ruthless, targeting farmers on their way to the farm and land speculators inspecting property.
Seven communities – Ndegwu, Amakohia‑Ubi, Irete, Orogwe, Ogbaku, Nekede and Avu – have become the worst hit. The pattern of attacks has left deserted farmlands and abandoned building sites, with residents describing a pervasive sense of fear.
In Umukenekpu village, Ndegwu, a family of three, including a four‑month‑old baby, and four others were abducted by gunmen described as suspected herdsmen. The victim later recounted that the abductors showed no pity even for the infant, feeding the baby and mother only biscuits and dirty water during captivity. The family was released after an alleged payment of N30 million ransom, a claim the police have yet to confirm.
The Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) and surrounding communities have also been shaken. A branch manager of Polaris Bank was killed during a visit to the campus, and several students were abducted and later released, leaving lasting trauma among staff and students.
A recent attack in Umuekwune, Irete, saw a man, his wife and a local vigilance operative inspecting a property intended for purchase. Gunmen, suspected to be herders, opened fire, killing the man and the vigilante on the spot. The woman escaped with gunshot injuries but reportedly died in hospital.
Imo State Police Public Relations Officer Henry Okoye said security agencies have been deployed to the affected areas to restore confidence and curb criminal activity. Residents, however, are calling for sustained surveillance, dismantling of criminal camps in the LGA and a security presence that allows farmers to work and builders to develop without fear.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
