Author: Gist Correspondent

At least two persons were shot dead in separate gun attacks in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State between January 28 and 29.

Sources disclosed that the first incident occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on January 28, when a 35-year-old man, Uche Simon, from Mgbelu Umunnekwu Village, Isuikwuato, was attacked by unknown armed men while returning from Abia State University (ABSU).

The victim reportedly sustained gunshot wounds to his right hand and the left side of his chest, while his Qlink black motorcycle was stolen by the assailants.

Police operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Isuikwuato promptly responded to the scene, where an empty AK-47 shell was recovered. Simon was rushed to Living Home Hospital, Isuikwuato, where he(iv) was confirmed dead by a medical doctor. His remains were deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy.

Security sources said investigations had commenced in collaboration with community leaders and vigilante groups to identify and arrest the attackers, recover the stolen motorcycle and prevent further incidents. The case is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet investigation.

In a related incident on January 29 at about 6:00 a.m., a 19-year-old motor boy, Awba Abdulsalam, was shot during an attack at Nnunya Junction along the Port Harcourt–Enugu Expressway, also within Isuikwuato LGA.

The victim, who worked with a truck driver, Ajiya Ahmed from Mangu, Plateau State, was reportedly shot while the driver stepped out to check the vehicle. According to sources, the driver heard two gunshots and immediately moved the truck from the spot, but the motor boy had already sustained fatal gunshot injuries to his waist.

The police recovered the body and conveyed it to the General Hospital, Isuikwuato, where he was confirmed dead. Upon the request of the Seriki Hausa of Abia State, Alhaji Eze Yaro, the corpse was released for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

The police said a manhunt had been launched for the perpetrators and assured residents that security patrols along major roads in the area would be intensified to forestall further attacks.