Nigerian security agencies have launched a coordinated manhunt following a deadly attack by armed assailants along the Okigwe-Owerri Road in Imo State, southeast Nigeria.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, May 8, left several travellers dead and more than 20 vehicles including trucks and motorcycles completely burnt. Witnesses said the attackers operated in three separate groups, blocking the highway between Umunna in Onuimo Local Government Area and parts of Okigwe LGA around 5:00 AM.
The gunmen, suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), shot sporadically at commuters and set vehicles ablaze. Some victims were reportedly trapped inside burning vehicles, leading to multiple fatalities.
Reacting to the incident, Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, led a joint operation involving the Military, Department of State Services (DSS), and other tactical units to the scene. He confirmed that efforts are underway to apprehend the attackers and restore calm to the area.
“We are committed to hunting down those responsible for this heinous act,” Danjuma said. “This is a direct assault on innocent Nigerians and will not be tolerated.”
This is the latest in a series of violent attacks linked to separatist activities in the southeast, where armed groups have increasingly targeted civilians, security personnel, and infrastructure.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help bring the perpetrators to justice.
