2 killed as suspected herdsmen ambush a property inspection in Imo, Nigeria

Fear has gripped residents of the Umunjo community in Irete, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, after suspected herdsmen killed a vigilante operative and another man on Monday, September 14, 2026.

The Imo State Police Command confirmed the incident. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, the attack involved “suspected armed bandits” who killed two young persons in Irete. Videos circulating on social media showed the bodies of the two men lying in pools of blood a short distance apart.

Eyewitnesses and a community source said the deceased vigilante had escorted the second man to the area to inspect a property when the attackers struck. The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, identified the assailants as herdsmen and noted that the community has faced repeated such attacks. Residents say Irete has recently seen assaults targeting prospective property buyers and real estate agents, with about four people killed in separate similar incidents.

Some residents of Umunjo have reportedly fled the area out of fear of further attacks or possible security questioning. They appealed to security agencies to restore normalcy and apprehend those responsible.

In response, Commissioner of Police Audu Garba Bosso condemned the killings and ordered the immediate deployment of enhanced security operations to Owerri West and Oguta Local Government Areas. The deployment covers communities including Ejemekuru, Ogbakwu, Izombe, Irete, Umuguma, Okuku, Ndegwu, Amakohia-Ubi and adjoining areas. It involves the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Violent Crime Response Unit, working with community vigilantes on intelligence-led operations.

Bosso stressed that the command will not allow criminal elements to gain a foothold and urged the public to remain security-conscious and report suspicious activities promptly.

The incident is the latest in a series of security challenges in parts of Imo State, including reported kidnappings and other crimes.