Angry youths set hotel ablaze over death of staff in Imo

Youths from Umulogho community in Obowo Local Government Area have reportedly set fire to a portion of a hotel building following the alleged killing of one of its staff, Ebuka Nwaneri. The incident stemmed from accusations that Nwaneri stole a phone belonging to a military personnel who was relaxing at the hotel over the weekend.

According to a source from the community speaking to The Nation, the deceased was confined to a generator room in an attempt to coerce a confession regarding the missing phone. Tragically, the victim succumbed to alleged torture inflicted during this confinement, and his body was purportedly disposed of by the suspects, being thrown over the hotel fence into nearby bushes. The discovery of the body by community youths further incited anger.

In response, enraged youths descended upon the hotel, setting part of it ablaze and issuing threats of retaliation against the hotel owner’s family if justice wasn’t served. Chimezie Mbakwe, another community source, confirmed the incident and appealed to authorities to transfer the case to prevent mob violence.

Chinagorom Cyriacus, the Youth President of Umulogho community, urged calm among the youth population, promising that those responsible would face legal consequences. He stressed the community’s dedication to ensuring justice prevails.

The police have reportedly taken control of the situation, with the Imo Police Command overseeing efforts to prevent further escalation. The Army’s Public Relations Officer, Joseph Akubo, stated that investigations are underway to determine if any military personnel were involved, emphasizing that the army would not tolerate any wrongdoing by its members. He assured that if any soldier is found guilty, they would face appropriate consequences.