TheGavel – In Izombe, a pivotal oil-bearing community in Imo State’s Oguta Local Government Area, socio-economic activities ground to a halt for nearly two years due to escalating insecurity. Residents faced a reign of terror orchestrated by a criminal gang known as ‘Umuoma,’ which engaged in killings, kidnappings, and widespread violence. The once-thriving community, central to the socio-economic activities of nearby Mgbele, Agwa, Awa, Akabuo, Ejemekwuru, and Nkwesi, saw its population flee and its markets shuttered in fear.
Mr. Pauly Igbokwe, a witness and native of Umuokwu village, recalled the onset of the crisis: “This was the problem that caused the burning of many buildings, before some politicians who contested in 2023 general elections took advantage of the crisis and engaged hoodlums who called themselves ‘Umuoma militia gang.'”
The situation reached a tipping point following a clash between Nigerian Army personnel and local youths involved in illegal oil bunkering, exacerbating tensions and leading to retaliatory attacks. As the community descended into chaos, the intervention of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma marked a turning point. Security agencies, including the Nigeria Navy and police forces, were deployed to restore order.
Chidiebere Uzoma, a resident who fell victim to the criminal gang, recounted his harrowing experience: “I was kidnapped and taken hostage to one of the camps of the gang located in Amakpuruedere village.” He described being blindfolded and forced to contact family members for ransom, highlighting the terror inflicted upon innocent residents.
Amidst the chaos, the establishment of a local vigilance group emerged as a beacon of hope. Led by community youths and supported by local authorities, the Izombe Vigilance Group undertook nightly patrols and collaborated closely with law enforcement agencies to gather intelligence and combat crime. Their efforts quickly bore fruit, significantly reducing incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, vandalism, and theft.
Jike Okafor, leader of the Izombe Vigilance Group, emphasized the group’s commitment and the community’s support: “Since our training and inauguration, we have enjoyed collaboration with various security agencies, especially in responding promptly to intelligence reports on criminal activities.”
Despite their successes, Okafor highlighted challenges faced by the vigilance group, including the need for operational vehicles, light arms, ammunition, and basic security equipment. He appealed for greater support from both government and community leaders to sustain their efforts in safeguarding Izombe.
ASP Henry Okoye, Police Public Relations Officer for Imo State, praised the community policing initiative as a model for other communities grappling with rising insecurity. He urged communities across Imo State and Nigeria to emulate Izombe’s collaborative approach to security, emphasizing the importance of public participation and trust-building in crime prevention. (NAN)
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