Community declare Onyebuchi wanted over connection with Izombe mining riot

Umuokwu Izombe, Imo State – Authorities in Imo State are on the lookout for Mr. Iherue Onyebuchi Ugochukwu, a native of Umuokwu Izombe in Oguta Local Government Area and a graduate of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), for his alleged involvement in illegal mining operations that triggered a violent riot in Izombe on October 8, 2021.

Reports from community leaders indicate that the unlawful mining activities had been ongoing without federal approval or the knowledge of the Izombe local council.

Acting on a tip, community leaders raised concerns with “Ebubeagu,” the local vigilante group, which took action to halt the unauthorized mining.

However, attempts to intervene led to clashes between the miners and local security forces, resulting in multiple injuries among vigilantes and military personnel.

Law enforcement officials were summoned, but by the time they arrived at the scene, the miners had dispersed. Investigators later identified Iherue Onyebuchi Ugochukwu as the alleged ringleader of the mining operation. It was rumored that he was sighted in the Izombe community as recently as May 26, 2023, but he has since reportedly evaded capture, with sources suggesting he may have fled across the border into Cameroon.

Community leader Peter Emeka Okoli of Umuokwu Izombe has called on anyone with information on Mr. Iherue’s whereabouts to come forward. The case, which involves property damages worth millions of naira, has been officially filed with the police.

Authorities emphasise that Mr. Iherue’s arrest could bring justice to a community still reeling from the destruction caused by the mining operations and ensuing violence.