Police Investigate Cult Killing in Imo, Search for Gunmen

The Imo State Police Command is looking into the suspected cult killing of a 34-year-old man, Gift Okoro, in Owerri. They have also started a manhunt for the gunmen who escaped after the incident.

Okoro was reportedly shot dead by unknown attackers at a car wash near Bishop’s Court Roundabout, close to the Imo State University area of Owerri, on Wednesday.

Henry Okoye, the state Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed what happened. He said the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Bosso, has ordered a full investigation to find out what happened and to catch those responsible.

Okoye said, “The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, has ordered a thorough investigation into a suspected cult-related shooting incident reported in Owerri on November 11, 2026, involving one Gift Okoro, a 34-year-old male, who was allegedly shot by unidentified assailants.

“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives promptly responded, while efforts are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and apprehend the perpetrators.”

Witnesses said the attackers drove to the car wash, shot Okoro at close range, and then quickly left the scene.

The police spokesperson stated that the command will not accept cultism, gang violence, or any other kind of crime in the state. He encouraged anyone with useful information that could help the investigation or lead to the suspects' arrest to reach out to the police.

Okoye said, “The Commissioner of Police reiterates that cultism, gang violence and all forms of criminality will not be tolerated in Imo State. He has directed that all necessary measures be taken to identify, arrest and prosecute anyone found culpable in accordance with the law.”

He reassured residents that the police are committed to protecting lives and property. He warned that those who commit violent crimes will not find a safe place in the state.

This recent killing adds to a series of suspected cult-related shootings in Imo State over the past few weeks.

On October 17, 2026, another man, Nnamdi Okeke, was shot dead in Owerri in a case the police also labeled as cult-related.

After that killing, police arrested 22-year-old Bright Adiene in connection with Okeke’s murder. They are still searching for another suspect named Anyima, who is believed to be linked to the shooting.