This weekly update spotlights organized criminality in the Niger Delta with a focus on rising criminal violence and targeted killings in Imo State. Criminal violence and targeted killings are major drivers of insecurity in the State. According to data (see map above), criminal violence caused over 400 fatalities in Imo State between January 2020 and June 2024. Recent data shows a resurgence of criminal violence, including attacks on government security personnel and civilians. In July 2024, for instance, four police officers and a woman were allegedly killed by suspected separatist militias in Irete, Owerri West local government area (LGA). In September, gunmen reportedly killed two local vigilantes and burned some cars and houses in Umuelemai, the headquarters of Isiala Mbano LGA. Separately, gunmen allegedly attacked a police station and killed a police officer in Umulogho, Obowo LGA. Also, in September, gunmen reportedly attacked a church and killed a man in Orodo, Mbaitoli LGA. Recently, on September 15, 2024, gunmen reportedly attacked a divisional police headquarters and killed three persons in Umuaka, Njaba LGA.

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