Palpable fear has enveloped Irete autonomous community in Owerri West local council area of Imo State, as armed hoodlums reportedly descended on the community
A tragic update to the story. Unfortunately, Miss Ugochi Agbanyi has succumbed to the severe injuries inflicted upon her by the armed hoodlums in Irete autonomous community, Imo State. Her brother, who was also attacked, remains in critical condition at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri (FUTHO), fighting for his life. This senseless act of violence has claimed at least one life and left another hanging in the balance. My thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones during this difficult time.
A villager, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared a detailed account of the events that unfolded in Irete autonomous community, Imo State, with Sunday Vanguard. According to the villager:
· The community has been facing persistent attacks from armed herdsmen for a long time.
· On Wednesday night, September 11, 2024, the community’s local security outfit engaged in a fierce gun battle with the armed attackers.
· The attackers had been robbing and pillaging properties of innocent citizens in Irete.
· The confrontation forced the attackers to retreat into the bushes on the northern axis of the community, near the Nworie River.
This account highlights the severity of the situation and the bravery of the local security outfit in standing up to the attackers. However, the fact that the attackers were able to retreat into the bushes suggests that they may still be a threat to the community
“The attackers’ chaotic escape from the scene of the crime was marked by a trail of destruction and harm. Two innocent victims, siblings Uche Agbanyi (known as Uche Chelsea) and Ugochi Agbanyi, were caught in the crossfire. Despite initial treatment at a nearby medical facility, their injuries were so severe that they were transferred to the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Owerri. Sadly, Ugochi’s injuries proved fatal, and she lost her life to the senseless violence. The community remains in a state of vigil, praying for Uche’s recovery as he continues to fight for his life.”
The villager continued, recounting further incidents of violence:
“Last night (Friday), the hoodlums struck again, stealing a motorcycle from its owner near AA Rano filling station and Disney Hotel. They didn’t stop there; they also brutally assaulted the owner, leaving him with severe injuries.”
This latest incident underscores the escalating pattern of violence and lawlessness in the area, with the hoodlums becoming increasingly brazen in their attacks. The community remains on edge, fearing for their safety and livelihoods.
