The traditional ruler of Oriendu autonomous community, HRH Eze Philip Ajomiwe, has raised serious concerns over the discovery of more than 30 unidentified bodies suspected to be victims of ritual killings in the Imo River since last year.
Speaking to journalists at his palace on Monday, the monarch disclosed that the latest case involved a woman whose mutilated body was found near the river. According to him, many of the victims—mostly young girls—are dumped either naked with missing body parts or packed in bags.
“The ritualists, believed to be from Imo State, come at night to dispose of the bodies in the river. By morning, we wake up to the horrifying sight,” he lamented.
Despite multiple reports to security agencies, no arrests have been made. The situation, he said, has created widespread fear in the community. Efforts by the local vigilante group to track down the perpetrators have been unsuccessful due to their lack of proper equipment.
“So, we’re appealing to the state government to empower the vigilante group with necessary logistics and support. You can’t fight an armed enemy with bare hands,” the monarch stated.
Eze Ajomiwe revealed that he had formally reported the matter to various security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), and had written to the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly on February 7. However, little progress has been made.
While he appreciated the government’s recent increase in monthly stipends for traditional rulers, he stressed that the funds were inadequate to tackle growing security concerns. He called for increased government intervention to strengthen community security structures.
When contacted, the Abia State Police Command stated that it would investigate the reports. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Maureen Chilaka said she would verify the claims with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the area and provide further updates.
Residents of Oriendu community continue to live in fear as they await urgent government action to stop the disturbing trend.
Over 30 Unidentified Bodies Found in Imo River, Monarch Raises Alarm Over Ritual Killings
