Police launch investigation, as gunmen invade Abia cattle market, kill 8
[From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia]
Suspected gunmen have attacked and killed about eight persons and cattle at the newly-established cattle market in Omumauzor, Ukwa West local government area of Abia State.
Abia Government has condemned the attack, even as various security agencies have began investigations into the incident.
Reports said that gunmen, Tuesday night, attacked the new Omumauzor cattle market at about midnight and started shooting sporadically, killing about eight persons and cattle in the process.
Cattle dealers were recently relocated to Omumauzor in the wake of the trailer accident that calimed many lives at the Waterside Cattle/Abattoir Market and Ahiaudele Market in Abia
The attack was said to have rattled villagers and left those in the market in confusion.
Abia State government said it reacted swiftly to the incident by mobilising various security agencies to the scene that night to secure the lives and property of the innocent traders and fish out the assailants.
A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Barr. Eze Chikamnayo, indicated that government, Wednesday morning, dispatched a high-powered team made up of the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prof ACB Agbazuere, Hon. Commisioner for Trade and Investment, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Honorable Commissioner for Homeland Security, Chief Sopuruchi Bekee, Executive Chairman of Ukwa West LGA, Chief Okey Kanu, in company of the State Commisioner of Police, CP Janet Agbedeto the troubled zone.
“We are shocked and saddened by this mindless and barbaric act of violence that claimed the lives of about eight innocent citizens of our great country and we totally condemn this dastardly act together with its wicked perpetrators,” Chikamnayo stated.
The statement read further:
“We are working assiduously to provide succour to the families of the victims. Those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical attention. We have equally started the immediate relocation of the traders while working out compensation for lost properties. We shall leave no stone unturned to ensure that the evil perpetrators are brought to justice. “
“While waiting for the outcome of ongoing investigations by our diligent Security Forces, the Governor of Abia State, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, together with all Abians, pray for God to grant the families of victims the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
“We urge all Citizens of our great Country in Abia State to remain law abiding and promptly report any suspicious movements to the appropriate authorities,” the Commissioner concluded.
