The Imo State Police Command has increased security measures in the Okigwe area, specifically in the Gariki area, also known as Ama Awusa, which is largely inhabited by northerners.
News About Nigeria reports that this move comes after a recent attack by unidentified gunmen in the area, which resulted in six deaths.
The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, promised that the perpetrators would be caught and brought to justice.
The police commissioner assured the residents of Okigwe, especially the traders at Gariki Market, that they would be protected and safe.
He said the police are taking steps to ensure the maximum safety and security of the community.
The CP added that the police are working to prevent future attacks and maintain peace in the area.
He gave this assurance during his visit to Okigwe for an on-the-spot assessment of the market following the unwarranted attack in the area by hoodlums suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and Eastern Security Network, ESN.
The statement also informed that police operatives, in synergy with the military and the local vigilantes, are currently carrying out intensive operations in the area to clamp down on hoodlums responsible for the senseless act of violence.
CP Aboki Danjuma urged the residents of Okigwe to go about their lawful businesses without fear, as adequate security measures have been put in place to forestall any future occurrences.
He enjoined them to continue to support the police and other security agencies with valuable information by reporting any suspicious person seen or clandestine activities observed within their vicinity to the nearest police station, as he maintained that security is everybody’s business.
It was learnt that in the early hours of Thursday, yet-to-be-identified gunmen attacked the area and killed six people.
According to a report from one of the residents in the area, they first heard gunshots at about midnight and the operation lasted until 9 am.
