It has become an unending theater of bullet firing in some parts of Imo State as staccato of gunshots rent the air in the state capital.
Since the civil disturbances that led to exchange of gun fire in Orlu area of the state and the subsequent invasion of police headquarters and correctional centre all in Owerri, residents of the state have been experiencing intermittent sporadic gunshots within their neigbourhood.
Few weeks ago, those living at Ama Hausa Quarters on Douglas Road and Mbaise road had terrible night sleeps arising from thundering gunshots when suspected unknown gunmen and security forces exchanged bullets.
Trumpeta also recounts another near warfare in Ideato/Orlu end of the state last week when security agencies gunned down about nine persons during a fierce clash.
On Tuesday night, Douglas, Mbaise and parts of Whetheral road were on fire again as residents crept into their houses when the guns boomed repeatedly.
A resident said that at about 7.30pm two days ago, gunshots from yet to be identified persons were heard from different corners in the affected areas. The deafening sound continued unabated till late night forcing panic into the minds of Imolites.
“I was in the house when the gunshots started. Everybody ran inside to hide to avoid stray bullets. It continued to sound like bomb before we heard nothing again” the source added.
Trumpeta also saw video clips of the gunshots boom in the social media to confirm the incidents. Meanwhile, residents, especially those residing in Aladinma and Ikenegbu part of Owerri scampered for safety midway when gunshots were heard in the area.
Though, the direction it was coming from and architects of the shooting could not be ascertained as at press time, but motorist and road users hurried home to avoid being caught in the inferno. To worsen the already charged situation, major roads in the state capital especially the one leading to Government House, Owerri was totally blocked thereby causing heavy traffic gridlock on the way.
Signs are clear that residents are living in fear judging from the discussion in public places.
As at the time of going to press, police was yet to issue any statement on the matter even as speculations are rife on those behind the action.
Later reports have it that one person may have been killed by the gunshots of Tuesday night.
In the early hours of yesterday, man was reported to have been found dead in a gutter arising from gunshot injuries.
