By Sophia Afolabi

Gunmen behind a deadly ambush on a police patrol team in Imo State have released a chilling video, brazenly displaying stolen rifles and threatening further violence against security operatives in the region.

The attack, which occurred early Sunday near Finas Gas Station along the Okigwe-Umuahia Road, claimed the life of Police Constable Oluebube. An Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), identified as Casmir, remains missing and is feared abducted.

In the disturbing one-minute, 47-second footage obtained by journalists, the assailants openly warned security forces—police, military, and Department of State Services (DSS) operatives—to stay away from the Okigwe axis. They accused officers of extortion and extrajudicial killings, claiming their assault was retaliation against alleged abuses at local checkpoints.

The video shows at least two rifles, including what appears to be an AK-47 reportedly taken from the slain officer, as the masked attackers boasted about the operation.

According to a police statement, the assault occurred at approximately 9:00 a.m. near the Old Gariki area in Okigwe. The patrol team, led by ASP Casmir, was ambushed while on duty. Constable Oluebube was shot dead, and his service weapon was seized by the attackers.

ASP Casmir and his rifle are unaccounted for, prompting fears of possible abduction. Other officers managed to retreat and return to base with their weapons and are currently receiving medical treatment.

“One PC Oluebube was killed in action and his smoke gunner carted away. ASP Casmir and his AK-47 rifle is missing. Other members of his team have returned to base with their rifles and are currently receiving medical care,” the police said.

Authorities have launched a manhunt to locate the missing officer and bring the perpetrators to justice.