From Everest Ezihe, Owerri
Imo Police Command has alleged that two young men, suspected to be members of the proscribed freedom fighting members of Indigenous People of Biafra,IPOB and Eastern Security Network, ESN, has been killed in Orlu while carrying an improvised explosive device (IED) on a motorcycle with the intention of planting it at Orlu International Market, near Mbari Okporo.
ASP Henry Okoye, the Command’s spokesperson told news men in Owerri that, “fortunately, the device detonated before they could carry out their plan, killing both individuals instantly and preventing what could have been a far more tragic outcome.
“Two passersby were injured in the blast and were promptly taken to the hospital for medical treatment” he informed.
Okoye pointed out that preliminary investigations suggest that the two deceased individuals may have been involved in earlier IED explosions in the Omuma and Orlu communities on earlier in the month, which he also revealed that resulted in injuries to two citizens.
He insisted that further investigations are ongoing to confirm their involvement in these incidents.
In response to the explosion, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, visited the scene with EOD operatives for an on-the-spot assessment.
Danjuma expressed sympathy to the injured victims and wished them a swift recovery.
He reassured residents that the area had been cleared of any remaining IEDs and that enhanced security measures are now in place to prevent future incidents.
The Police boss also enjoined members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious items or individuals observed in their vicinity to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency line 0803 477 3600.
He assured the community that the police would continue their investigation to bring all those responsible for these attacks to justice, so as to serve as deterrent.
