ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Seven security guards have been killed by unidentified gunmen in Imo State.
The incident occurred while they were at their duty posts within Umuafom autonomous community in Orogwe, Owerri West Local Government Area of the State.
According to a source, the attackers, who operated gestapo style, came in two vehicles and a bike on Monday night and killed the local guards at their duty posts, at different locations within the area.
The source added that a commercial motorcyclist ran into the bandits during the operation and was shot in the leg while trying to escape. He is presently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre Owerri for his wounds.
Another victim, who is also receiving treatment at the Federal medical center, sustained a machete cut while trying to escape, the source said.
This incident has caused tension in the area as some residents are temporarily leaving the area for a safer abode for fear of a reprisal attack on villagers, considering the fact that all the seven local guards are non-indigenes of Imo state.
The Imo State police Public relations officer, Michael Abattam has confirmed the attack.
Abattam said the incident is being investigated, to find the attackers and unearth their motives.
He also pleaded with the community to remain calm and not panic as the police would provide adequate security in the area.