The Imo State Police Command has launched an investigation and a manhunt for suspected gunmen who shot dead a 34-year-old man, Gift Okoro, in Owerri, the state capital.
Okoro was reportedly killed at close range by unidentified assailants at a car wash near Bishop’s Court Roundabout, around the Imo State University axis, on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident, saying the Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, had ordered a comprehensive investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the killing and ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.
In a statement, Okoye said police operatives responded promptly after receiving information about the shooting, adding that efforts were underway to track down the fleeing suspects.
He said, “The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, has ordered a thorough investigation into a suspected cult-related shooting incident reported in Owerri on November 11, 2026, involving one Gift Okoro, a 34-year-old male, who was allegedly shot by unidentified assailants.
“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives promptly responded, while efforts are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and apprehend the perpetrators.”
Sources said the attackers arrived at the car wash around Bishop’s Court Roundabout, shot Okoro at close range and immediately fled the scene.
The police spokesperson condemned the killing, warning that the command would not tolerate cultism, gang violence or other criminal activities in the state.
He urged residents with useful information that could assist the investigation or lead to the arrest of the suspects to report to the police.
Okoye added that the commissioner had directed officers to take all necessary steps to identify, arrest and prosecute anyone found culpable.
He said, “The Commissioner of Police reiterates that cultism, gang violence and all forms of criminality will not be tolerated in Imo State. He has directed that all necessary measures be taken to identify, arrest and prosecute anyone found culpable in accordance with the law.”
The command also assured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, warning that individuals involved in violent crimes would be brought to justice.
The latest killing comes amid growing concerns over suspected cult-related violence in parts of Imo State.
On October 17, 2026, another man, Nnamdi Okeke, was shot dead in Owerri in an incident the police also linked to suspected cult activities.
Following the incident, the police arrested a 22-year-old suspect, Bright Adiene, while declaring a manhunt for another suspect identified as Anyima, who was allegedly connected to the killing.
