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Panic gripped travelers along the Okpala-Aba road near the Sam Mbakwe International Airport corridor on Friday, as gunmen suspected to be herdsmen allegedly blocked the highway, disrupted movement, and reportedly abducted multiple passengers.
Eyewitness accounts and social media reports suggest the attackers, described by locals as herdsmen, targeted commercial vehicles, leaving travelers stranded and sparking fears of a worsening security crisis in the area.
A viral video obtained by *CrimeFacts* on Saturday showed several vehicles abandoned on the road, with passengers standing helplessly as the sound of gunshots echoed in the background. A male voice in the footage lamented, “These herdsmen have turned this road into a kidnapping zone. They strike constantly, and no one is safe.” Witnesses claimed the assailants dragged victims into nearby bushes, though the exact number of abductees remains unconfirmed.
The attack paralyzed traffic for hours, stranding travelers en route to Aba, Owerri, and neighboring states. Many passengers reportedly fled into nearby communities for safety, while others remained trapped until security forces arrived.
Local resident and several social media users raised alarms about the deteriorating security situation along the critical airport route, writing: *“Aba Road from Owerri is becoming a danger zone. Just days ago, a driver was killed, and his passenger was taken into the bush. When will this end?”*
The Okpala-Aba road, a key artery connecting Imo State to Abia State, has seen a spike in violent incidents linked to armed groups in recent months. Residents accuse herdsmen of collaborating with criminal elements to carry out kidnappings for ransom, though no group has claimed responsibility for Friday’s attack.
Imo State Police Command spokesperson, Henry Okoye, told journalists that operatives had been deployed to the area to restore order. However, he did not confirm if there were abductions or casualties. “We are investigating the incident and urge residents to remain calm,” Okoye said.
Community leaders and civil society groups have criticized the government’s delayed response to recurring attacks. “This road is vital for commerce and travel, yet it’s now a death trap,” said Emmanuel Eziefula, a road user . “We need permanent security solutions, not empty promises.”
