Gunmen on Friday night killed a traditional ruler, Paulinus Ekwueme, alongside security operatives in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State.

The monarch, identified as the ruler of Ochia Awarra Ohaji, was reportedly ambushed at the boundary between Assa and Ochia communities shortly after returning from a trip abroad earlier in the week.

A source said the attackers opened fire on his convoy, killing the monarch and some security operatives, though the exact number of casualties could not be confirmed. The victims were allegedly set ablaze after the attack, throwing the community into mourning.

The spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident and said security operatives had been deployed to restore calm in the area.

He added that the Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, had ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams to investigate the attack and track down the perpetrators.

Police assured residents that efforts were ongoing to apprehend those responsible, stressing that the killers would be brought to justice.

The incident has heightened fear in the area, with residents expressing concern over rising insecurity in the region.