The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the launch of a manhunt for gunmen who killed a man and kidnapped his wife during a land inspection visit in Owerri West Local Government Area of the state.
Police spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed on Monday that efforts were underway to track down the attackers and rescue the kidnapped woman.
The tragic incident occurred on Sunday evening at Golden Estate along Abba Father Avenue in Umuguma. Sources told PUNCH Metro that the victims—a couple—were visiting a property they had allegedly purchased, accompanied by two land agents, when they were ambushed.
According to an eyewitness who requested anonymity, the couple was travelling in a Toyota Highlander with the agents when they were confronted by masked, armed men. The initial attack saw the husband flee the scene while the assailants held his wife.
“The man managed to escape but later returned to look for his wife,” the source said. “When he came back, the gunmen attempted to seize him again.
He resisted, and they shot him dead. They then took his wife and disappeared into the nearby forest. His vehicle was left behind at the scene.”
The two land agents reportedly fled the scene, with one sustaining injuries. Police arrived shortly afterward to recover the man’s body.
Confirming the incident, DSP Okoye said investigations had begun and that security personnel—including local vigilantes—were conducting search operations in the surrounding forest areas as directed by the state Commissioner of Police.
“The command is aware of this unfortunate event.
A vigorous operation is underway to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” Okoye said.
Efforts to identify the deceased man are still ongoing, while authorities continue to search for the kidnapped woman.