A young commercial motorcyclist, identified simply as Osinachi, was shot dead on Friday by gunmen riding on a motorcycle in Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers ambushed the victim as he was exiting a corner on his motorcycle and shot him at close range before fleeing the scene. The motive behind the killing is still unknown, as it is unclear whether it was a case of robbery or targeted assassination.
Confirming the incident, the Abia State Police Command said its officers have commenced a full investigation. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the matter was reported at the Uturu Divisional Headquarters and that police officers, led by the Divisional Police Officer, visited the scene.
“The victim was rushed to the hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival. His body has been deposited at the morgue,” she said.
She added that exhibits were recovered at the scene and that police patrol teams are combing the area while a discreet investigation continues.
The incident adds to growing security concerns in Abia, where there have been rising cases of attacks by unidentified gunmen in rural areas.
