Security agencies have launched a large-scale operation to capture the herdsmen responsible for the deadly attack on the Ihitte/Ngor Okpala road in Imo State last Friday. The attackers allegedly kidnapped passengers and killed a driver, prompting a coordinated response from the police, forest guards, local vigilantes, and other security forces.
Search operations are currently underway in Avu, Irete, Ihiagwa, and Obinze autonomous communities in Owerri West, as well as parts of Ngor Okpala LGA. During a security briefing on Monday, Imo State Police Commissioner Aboki Danjuma told reporters that the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its security wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), had previously declared Mondays as “sit-at-home” days. However, he assured residents that this directive is no longer in effect as security forces have neutralized threats in the region.
Danjuma revealed that the recent operation in the Ihiagwa Avu forest led to the arrest of several suspects, who are now providing valuable information. The operation was carried out in three sectors, each led by a separate commander, including the Brigand commander, another security leader, and Commissioner Danjuma himself.
He urged residents of Imo to ignore the “sit-at-home” order and continue their daily activities without fear. Additionally, he encouraged the public to report any security concerns to him, the Brigand commander, or the Air Force commander, with the assurance that their information would remain confidential.