Gunmen on Thursday evening detonated petrol bombs during attack on a police station in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area, Imo State, Southeast Nigeria.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Imo State Police Command, CSP Michael Abattam, in a statement on Friday acknowledged the explosion during the attack, saying the gunmen struck in the evening of Thursday.
The PPRO said that the gunmen arrived the policed station in several cars and motorcycles; Abattam said that they are believed to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN). He stated that the police were, however, on alert and returned fire for fire, compelling the gunmen to flee.
The PPRO highlighted: “On 21/10/2021, at about 1844 hours, armed bandits suspected to be IPOB/ ESN terror group, came to Isiala Mbano Police Station in about five vehicles and three motorcycles, threw petrol bombs on the roof of the already damaged building in the EndSARS imbroglio and started shooting indiscriminately.
“The gallant police operatives attached to the station returned fire, engaging them in a gun duel. They were able to repel the bandits and, in the process, they zoomed off in their vehicles and motorcycles.”
CSP Abattam noted that the police officers who confronted the gunmen ensured no arm was lost.
The PPRO added that the fire which resulted from the exploded petrol bombs was extinguished, noting that the fire, however, caused some damages to the building.
PPRO disclosed that one of the police operatives who sustained gunshot injury during the confrontation with the gunmen was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The PPRO stated that tactical teams of the state police command have been deployed to the area in manhunt for the gunmen and to beef up security in the area.
The Commissioner of Police in Imo, Rabiu Hussaini, commended the officers and men of the division for their gallantry, telling them to sustain their bravery.
The CP appealed to residents of the community and entire local government to assist the police with credible information that would lead to the arrest of the fleeing gunmen.
Commending the residents for their support, the CP enjoined them to continue to work in synergy with the police and other security agencies to combat crime and protect their police stations.