PANIC IN IMO COMMUNITY AS MASKED HERDSMEN WITH AK-47s SPOTTED, POLICE ASSURE RESIDENTS OF SAFETY

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

Tension gripped the villages of Umunobo, Nkwu-Emeke, and Akalovu in Emekuku, Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, after residents raised the alarm over the presence of masked herdsmen reportedly seen carrying assault rifles near their farmlands.

It was gathered during a visit to the area on Thursday that at least eight masked individuals believed to be herdsmen were sighted emerging from the bush early Wednesday morning, sparking fear and panic among villagers.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the development followed a recent dispute between the community and herders over the destruction of farmlands by grazing cattle.

“On Wednesday morning, we saw eight masked herdsmen advancing toward our village with AK-47 rifles. People began running, fearing an attack,” the source said.

In response, the Imo State Police Command assured residents that security had been beefed up in the area and urged calm.

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Police spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident and said the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, had ordered immediate action to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

“The DPOs of Owerri Urban, New Owerri, and Owerri North Divisions were deployed to the area alongside operatives from the Special Intervention Squad. We are also working in synergy with the Nigerian Army to patrol and secure the affected communities,” Okoye said.

“There is no cause for alarm as the situation is under control. We urge residents to go about their lawful activities without fear,” he added.

The police have assured villagers of continued surveillance and a strong security presence to ensure safety and prevent any potential attack.