By Stevenie Michaels
A gun duel erupted on Wednesday the 31st of July morning between operatives of the Imo state police and unidentified gunmen. The bandits attempted to penetrate the Government House axis, where a state function was ongoing, but were repelled by the police, who opened fire and chased them through Whethral road.
The exchange of gunfire sent traders, pedestrians, and commuters running for safety, with some reportedly wounded in the chaos. According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen attempted to break into the Correctional Service Center (prisons), but were thwarted by the presence of the military and other armed personnel.
The police Command's Spokesman, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident, stating that the gunmen, suspected to be members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN, employed a guerrilla-like strategy, launching surprise attacks and retreating into hiding. He assured that concerted efforts are underway to apprehend the culprits and restore normalcy in Owerri.
Residents expressed concern over the security breach, calling for an immediate review of security strategies and tactics. "If security personnel are stationed in the heart of the town, how could gunmen still manage to carry out their nefarious activities without being detected or apprehended?" one resident asked.
Others sympathized with the police, acknowledging the challenges they face in combating incessant attacks. "It's indeed a trying moment for the security operatives and Imolites as well. May God protect the security operatives, their lives, and our lives should be protected."
The gunshots lasted for about an hour, crippling economic and commercial activities in the state and disrupting ongoing functions in the municipality.
