UPDATED: Eight dead as gunmen attack Abia cattle market

Gunmen have attacked the newly constructed Abia cattle market in Omumauzor in the Ukwa West Local Government of Abia State and killed a yet-to-be-ascertained number of persons.

The attack, which occurred on Tuesday night, was said to have thrown the community into panic.

Confirming the attack, the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Eze Chikamnayo, in a statement, said the killings occurred at about 11:35pm on Tuesday.

The commissioner added that no fewer than eight people were killed by the assailants, while many were injured.

He said: “Government responded swiftly by mobilising the various security agencies to the scene that night to secure the lives and properties of the innocent traders and fish out the assailants.

“This was followed up this morning by a team comprising Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s Chief of Staff, ACB Agbazuere, Trade and Investment Commissioner, John Kalu, Homeland Security Commissioner Sopuruchi Bekee, and Ukwa West Council Chairman Okey Kanu, accompanied by Police Commissioner, Janet Agbede.

The commissioner added: “We are shocked and saddened by this mindless and barbaric act of violence that claimed the lives of about 8 innocent citizens of our great country and we totally condemn this dastardly act together with it’s wicked perpetrators.

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“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, 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,” Chikamnayo stated.

TheStar