Enforcers of the sit-at-home order in the southeast on Monday, attacked a stop-and-search checkpoint along the Owerri-Onitsha road in Imo State, killing four police officers and a female Point of Sale (PoS) operator.
The attack occurred around 6:30 pm at a popular hotel in Irete, Owerri West Local Government Area.
An eyewitness, who preferred to remain anonymous due to safety concerns, described the scene as horrific.
He said the gunmen targeted the police checkpoint, which was also serving as a PoS point, and opened fire on the officers and civilians present.
The eyewitness reported that the attack also resulted in the death of the PoS operator and several pedestrians who were caught in the crossfire.
“The gunmen stormed the hotel where the checkpoint was stationed and began shooting at the police officers and a PoS operator.
“Many people, including pedestrians, were taken by surprise and rushed to nearby hospitals. It was a terrifying scene, and everyone around fled in panic to avoid being hit by stray bullets,” the source told Punch.
The attack has reignited fears in the state, with the road becoming a recurring site of violence.
The eyewitness added that there had been previous incidents where policemen and civilians were killed by gunmen in the area.
Another resident expressed concern that the attack might deter people from going out on Mondays due to fears of violence.
Watch the video below:
Policemen,POS lady gunned down at Irete Owerri West,Imo state just now by unknown gunmen…This one no be protest o 🙆♂️🙆♂️🙆♂️😳
#EndBadGovernanceProtest #TinubuMustGo #bbnaija2024 #ProtestNow pic.twitter.com/Hcf3onXK2N— Emperor of Owerri (@NwaneriKendrick) July 29, 2024
