By: Erewunmi Peace

At least seven people have been confirmed dead and several others injured after suspected gunmen launched coordinated attacks on three villages in the Arondizuogu community of Ideato North Local Government Area, Imo State.

The affected villages — Ndi-Ejezie, Umualaoma, and Ndiakuwata Uno — were reportedly invaded in the early hours of Friday, July 25, 2025. According to local eyewitnesses, the attackers stormed the communities on motorcycles, shooting indiscriminately and causing widespread panic among residents.

“They came in the night and started shooting at random. People were running for safety. Some who couldn’t escape were gunned down in their homes,” a survivor told our correspondent.

Authorities have linked the attacks to suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). However, no group has officially claimed responsibility.

The Imo State Police Command confirmed the deaths of seven individuals and has deployed tactical units to the affected areas to restore peace and commence a manhunt for the assailants.

In a statement issued Friday afternoon, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Henry Okoye, assured the public that full-scale investigations are underway:

“Our officers responded swiftly, and calm is gradually returning. We urge residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement as we work to apprehend those responsible.”

Despite official figures, some residents claim the number of fatalities could be higher, with unconfirmed reports placing the death toll at over 14. This has not been independently verified at the time of this report.

The latest attack adds to the rising concerns over insecurity in the South-East region, where separatist activities and violent clashes have increased in recent years.