Two killed as security operatives clash with gunmen in Imo

Two unknown gunmen have been killed, following a joint operation carried out by officers of the army, air Force, and police in Imo state.

Abutu Yaro, Imo commissioner of police, confirmed the development in Owerri on Thursday.

Yaro said that the incident occurred during a clash between the gunmen and the security operatives, at Ikenanzizi in Obowo LGA of the state.

He disclosed that two rifles, five motorcycles, a Lexus jeep and one 18-seater bus were recovered from the gunmen.

According to NAN, the commissioner added that the operation was carried out in line with federal government’s resolve to curb attacks by gunmen across the country.

“It was a joint operation of the army, air force and police,” he said.

“Two unknown gunmen were killed in the process and investigation is ongoing.”

He, however, explained that the joint security team only recovered one corpse, adding that other members of the gang escaped with the corpse of the second person.

“We have one corpse, but they escaped with the other one and it has been deposited at the morgue at the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri,” he said.

He urged residents of the state to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, adding that security agencies had the situation under “firm” control.

The development comes days after Abutu was deployed to replace Nasiru Mohammed as police commissioner of Imo.