Key Points

• Gunmen ambushed travelers in a deadly Imo highway attack.

• Joint security forces raided an IPOB hideout, killing one suspect.

• Police recovered a snatched car and launched a manhunt.

Gunmen ambushed travelers along the Okigwe-Owerri Road on Thursday, killing an unspecified number of people and razing over 20 vehicles.

The violent assault happened between Umuna and Amuro communities in Onuimo and Okigwe local government areas of Imo State.

The attackers, suspected to be members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), reportedly opened fire on motorists and set fire to trucks and tipper vehicles.

Panic spread quickly through the region, prompting swift deployment of joint security forces.

Security forces raid IPOB hideout in Okigwe

Acting on intelligence, a joint team comprising police and other security agencies launched a manhunt for the perpetrators on Friday.

The team raided a hideout in Abor-Umulolo, Okigwe LGA, where the suspects were believed to be hiding.

According to police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye, the suspects engaged the operatives in a gun battle.

Security forces returned fire, killing one of the gunmen. The others managed to escape with gunshot wounds.

During the operation, the team recovered a Toyota Corolla with registration number ENU 283 CN and an HP laptop. Police believe the vehicle was snatched during the earlier ambush.

Police intensify search after Imo highway attack

Authorities have confirmed that the body of the neutralized suspect has been taken to a morgue, while the recovered items remain in police custody for forensic examination.

Police in Imo State have vowed to continue the manhunt until all suspects are apprehended. They urged residents to report any suspicious individuals or activities in their communities.

“The command remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property,” said Okoye. “Further updates will be released as investigations progress.”