The Imo State Police Command has revealed that two men suspected to be members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN, were carrying an improvised explosive device (IED) on a motorcycle with the intention of planting it at Orlu International Market, near Mbari Okporo on Tuesday
According to the Imo PPRO in the State, ASP Henry Okoye said 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.
He said two passersby were injured in the blast and were promptly taken to the hospital for medical treatment.
The Imo PPRO noted that Preliminary investigations suggest that the two deceased individuals may have been involved in earlier IED explosions in the Omuma and Orlu communities on November 3rd, 2024, which resulted in injuries to two citizens. Further investigations are ongoing to confirm their involvement in these incidents.
In response to the explosion, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, visited the scene with EOD operatives for an on-the-spot assessment. He expressed sympathy to the injured victims and wished them a swift recovery. The CP 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.
CP Danjuma urged 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.
