Vigilantes ‘kill two gunmen’ in Imo, foil attempt to burn police station

Operatives of a vigilante group have reportedly killed two unidentified gunmen in Agwa, Oguta LGA of Imo state.

The gunmen were said to have attempted to burn down a newly built police station in the community.

The incident which occurred on Saturday, was said to have generated palpable tension in the community, as residents were said to have fled to neighbouring communities for fear of the unknown.

A community source who spoke to journalists said Agwa police station recently witnessed incessant attacks leading to the killing of some of its officers.

The source said the police station was recently rebuilt by the community after gunmen attacked it and set it ablaze.

“On Wednesday, the 17th day of April, some yet-to-be-identified assailants invaded the town and started robbing residents of their belongings in Umukpo village in Agwa,” the source said. 

“But the local vigilante group led by Onyebuchi, popularly known as Magabush, laid an ambush around the police station.

“Unaware of the ambush, the assailants made their way towards the police station and were confronted with a barrage of gunfire from operatives of the vigilante group.

“Earlier, the gunmen unleashed terror on residents and traders, firing indiscriminately and dispossessing people of their belongings.

“During the gun duel, two of the gunmen were neutralised, while the rest made their way into the forest. They abandoned their vehicles and fled.”

Another resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said the swift response of the local vigilante operatives ensured the safety of the community.

Henry Okoye, police spokesperson in the state, said the command was yet to be briefed on the development.