By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Tragedy struck the Ochia Autonomous Community in the Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State as gunmen attacked and killed their traditional ruler, Eze Paulinus Ekwueme.

The monarch was reportedly set ablaze by the assailants during the violent encounter.

The incident occurred along the Asa Awara Road. In addition to the traditional ruler, five other individuals whose identities have not yet been confirmed were also killed and burnt during the brutal ambush.

Upon receiving a distress report from the Ohaji Police Division, the Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, mobilized tactical teams to the scene. Operatives recovered the remains of the deceased victims from the location in Asa.

The victims’ bodies have been evacuated and deposited at the Federal University Teaching Hospital (FUTH) in Owerri. Medical experts are expected to conduct autopsies as part of the formal investigation into the killings.

In response to the attack, the Police Command has deployed tactical units and operational assets to hunt down the suspects. Security forces are currently working in synergy with other agencies to track and arrest the fleeing gunmen.

The Commissioner of Police and his management team visited the Ochia Community for an on-the-spot assessment. The visit aimed to reassure the grieving residents of the police’s commitment to restoring peace and permanent security presence.

The Command has urged the public to provide any credible information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators. Authorities promised that the assailants will be brought to justice to face the full wrath of the law.