Residents Accuse Local Security Outfit of Killing Three Youths in Enugu Community

Residents of Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area in Enugu State have accused a security outfit known as “Strike Force,” allegedly formed by the council chairman, Michael Uche Ogalla, of killing at least three young men within one month, heightening tension in the area.

Among the victims is Ikechukwu Omeh, described as a promising youth and son of a well-known community figure, Shark Omeh. He was reportedly shot dead at Umuagbedo Agu in Amachalla community while returning home after his daily trading activities.

A community source alleged that members of the Strike Force opened fire after the victim failed to stop immediately when ordered.

“He was returning to Amufie from Amachalla after closing for the day. While returning at night, the security men suspected to be Strike Force saw him and asked him to stop,” the source said. “He couldn’t stop, and they pursued him to another village near Adupi, shot him directly and killed him instantly. They then collected his motorcycle.”

According to the source, the assailants fled the scene, leaving the body behind.

The killing came barely two weeks after another youth, Chekwube Ezeja, from Amachalla was allegedly shot dead during an attempt to kidnap the commander of the Amachalla Neighbourhood Watch. The commander was reportedly released after a ransom of N6 million was paid.

Residents also alleged that the same suspects killed a palm kernel trader at Umuopu in the Ozzi area of Enugu Ezike, tying him to a tree and torturing him to death.

Locals said three security outfits Central Neighbourhood Watch, Strike Force, and Destress Response Team currently operate in the council area, but the activities of the Strike Force have generated widespread fear.

Sources added that police have arrested two local security personnel in connection with the killings, though authorities have yet to officially confirm the development.

When contacted, the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, neither confirmed nor denied the incidents. He requested details of the location but had not responded further at the time of this report.