Mrs Ngozi Umeh, a trader at Ekeh Ubaheze, Awo Idemili, in Orsu Local Government Area was recently killed by a landmine explosion, while five others sustained various degrees of injuries.
The deadly explosion was said to have occurred at about 2:40 pm on Tuesday when activities in the market were in full swing. The deceased was said to have stepped on a land mine allegedly laid by unknown persons. Community sources said the explosion claimed two lives and not one..
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Henry Okoye, in a release dated June 25, claimed that the landmine was planted by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The PPRO who confirmed the incident said the woman was promptly rushed to the hospital where she was pronounced dead while five others who sustained various degrees of injuries are receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital..
The release further said, “Upon receipt of the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, swiftly deployed operatives of the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Tactical Teams, and personnel from Orsu and Orlu Division to cordon off the area, evacuate victims, and sweep the market vicinity for any other planted IEDs. The area has since been declared safe, and normal activities have resumed under enhanced security surveillance.
In addition, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID)has been directed to commence a comprehensive investigation aimed at unmasking and apprehending the perpetrators.
The Commissioner of Police commiserates with the family of the deceased, late Ngozi Umeh, and prays for the quick recovery of the injured victims. He also assures the good people of Orsu LGA and Imo State at large that the Command remains resolute in its determination to root out all criminal elements threatening the peace of the state.
Residents of Orsu and surrounding communities are urged to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, as adequate security measures have been emplaced to forestall any recurrence of such incident.
Members of the public are strongly advised to report any suspicious items, persons, or movements to the nearest police station or via the Command’s emergency number: 0803 477 3600”.
