This weekly update spotlights organized crime in the Niger Delta with a focus on criminal violence and targeted killings in Imo State. Organized criminal violence including targeted killing of community leaders and government security personnel is a major driver of conflict and insecurity in the State. According to data (see map above), criminal violence caused over 900 fatalities in Imo State between January 2021 and September 2023. Recent data indicates a resurgence of criminal violence in the State. In September 2023, for instance, gunmen allegedly ambushed and killed eight government security personnel including soldiers and policemen in Umualumaku community, Ehime Mbano LGA. In October, the deputy registrar of a polytechnic was reportedly killed by gunmen suspected to be separatist militias in Ezeala/Ezike community, Ehime Mbano LGA. In November, a traditional ruler was allegedly abducted and killed by gunmen in Mbutu community, Aboh Mbaise LGA. Also, in November, two police officers and a civilian were reportedly killed by gunmen suspected to be separatist militias at Ahiara Junction in Ahiazu Mbaise LGA.
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