Suspected members of a faction within the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) allegedly set fire to two buses at Eke Obolo in Isiala Mbano Local Government council of Imo State while enforcing a sit-at-home order.
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In a similar incident, a group of individuals in a sienna car blocked Onitsha road near Irete Market around 8 pm on Friday. They began firing shots indiscriminately, causing significant unrest within the entire community.
In response, the people in the vicinity, including residents, hastily sought safety to evade the danger of stray bullets. One witness, requesting anonymity, shared with Ejes Gist News Nigeria that as she was preparing to return home, four heavily armed men disembarked from a vehicle and initiated a spree of random shooting.
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The operation persisted for more than an hour, resulting in severe traffic congestion along the road.
During the incident, no security personnel were visible, leaving the civilians to fend for themselves. Individuals abandoned their merchandise and fled for their lives. Although no one sustained gunshot wounds, the experience was terrifying for those involved. One person mentioned sustaining a leg fracture.
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Henry Okoye, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Imo State Police Command, responded when contacted, assuring the public that the situation is under control. The police have implemented adequate security measures to apprehend the culprits responsible for this atrocious act and bring them to justice.
Okoye took the opportunity to urge stakeholders in Imo State to warn their constituents against enforcing the unlawful sit-at-home order, as the police command will take firm action against any subversive criminal syndicate or individual involved.
He advised the public to continue their lawful activities without fear or intimidation, while remaining vigilant and promptly reporting any individuals seen enforcing the unlawful sit-at-home order with criminal intent.
