BREAKING NEWS: Gunmen Kill Imo Monarch, Five Others, Burn Bodies in Deadly Ambush

Armed gunmen have killed a traditional ruler in Imo State along with five other persons in a brutal attack that has thrown the area into panic.

The monarch, identified as Eze Paulinus Ekwueme of Ochia Autonomous Community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, was reportedly travelling with others when the attackers ambushed them along the Asaa/Awara road on Friday evening.

Eyewitness accounts said the gunmen opened fire on the victims, killing the monarch and five others at the scene. After the attack, the assailants reportedly set the bodies ablaze.

The incident has caused widespread fear in the community, with residents expressing shock over the level of violence.

Security authorities confirmed the attack and said a manhunt has been launched to track down those responsible.

Police also deployed tactical units to the area to restore order and begin investigations.