In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through Owerri, the capital city of Imo State, three gunmen mercilessly shot and killed a retired police officer, Mr. Sampson Owobo, and his wife, Mrs. Owobo, on Sunday night.
Originally from Edo State, Mr. Owobo had dedicated his life to serving and protecting the community as an assistant superintendent of police. However, their peaceful existence was abruptly shattered outside the Chisco Transport office near the Owerri Area Police Command Office.
The incident, which took place at around 8 pm, plunged both residents and business owners into a state of confusion and fear. People rushed indoors, securing their homes, while others fled the area, seeking safety.
An eyewitness, who recounted the harrowing events, revealed that the assailants, armed with guns, attempted to snatch a bag from the couple, which was believed to contain a substantial amount of money.
When their merciless efforts to seize the bag failed, the criminals resorted to extreme measures. They callously shot Mr. Owobo in the forehead at close range, instantly ending his life. Tragically, Mrs. Owobo also fell victim to their heartless act, suffering a close-range gunshot wound to her left side, near her chest.
The wife was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Owerri, but her injuries proved fatal, as she succumbed to them. Meanwhile, her husband tragically breathed his last at the scene of the crime.
The targeted couple was not only running a bread business but also operating a point-of-sale (POS) service. It is suspected that the presence of cash from their business transactions may have attracted the attention of the armed robbers.
Henry Okoye, the spokesperson for the Imo State police command, expressing his deep concern, condemned the callous murder of the couple. He assured the public that a thorough investigation has been launched to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
