Gunmen ‘abduct four residents’ in Imo

Gunmen have reportedly abducted four persons in Owerri-west LGA of Imo state.

Witnesses said the incident took place on Monday night along the Umuanunu Obinze road in the state capital.

A resident, who did not want to be named, said the gunmen used a Sienna bus and blocked a private car carrying three individuals.

“They first shot an Okada rider to scare away drivers and passersby before they blocked the private car and took them into the bush,” the witness said.

“They shot the motorcyclist in the leg and took him along as well.”

Another resident said the rising cases of kidnappings and armed robbery in the Obinze area are alarming.

“There is a dense forest along Obinze Road where Fulani herders operate,” he said.

“It’s unfortunate that our security agents haven’t raided the area to investigate. If you knew the number of people who have lost their lives here, you would be shocked.

“That forest is where the herders commit their despicable acts.

“The police and government need to act quickly and clear the camp, as kidnappings happen daily along this route.”

When contacted, Henry Okoye, the police spokesperson in Imo, said the command had not yet been briefed on the incident.