OWERRI — Gunmen have reportedly torched heavy-duty machinery owned by an oil firm operating in Asaa community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, an incident that has escalated anxiety and renewed security fears across the oil-producing region.

According to community insiders, the attackers invaded the company’s operational site, set key equipment on fire, and escaped before security forces could respond. The destruction affected machines considered vital to the firm’s activities, dealing a significant blow to ongoing operations.

Speaking during a telephone conversation, the traditional ruler of Asaa, Eze Emma Asor, denounced the act and revealed that steps were already underway within the community to identify and apprehend those responsible. He questioned the motives of the perpetrators, suggesting that their decision to flee demonstrated wrongdoing.

The monarch indicated that the attackers had alleged marginalisation, claiming they were excluded from opportunities and benefits connected to oil exploration in the area. However, he dismissed the claims, stating that those involved lacked the professional qualifications required for engagement in such operations. He further alleged that some of the suspects had been operating from forest hideouts and were collaborating with criminal elements from neighbouring communities.

Eze Asor expressed deep concern over repeated acts of vandalism in the area. He recounted how his own residence had previously been attacked, with household fittings and a transformer stolen, forcing him to relocate temporarily to Owerri for safety reasons.

The traditional ruler disclosed that approximately four to five months earlier, discussions had been held with the Imo State Government and security agencies to offer amnesty to youths implicated in criminal activities. Despite the initiative, he said the individuals continued their unlawful actions.

Community sources also claimed that after destroying equipment belonging to Sterling Global, the gunmen reportedly returned to the area searching for local leaders, accusing them of obstructing access to oil-related benefits.

Residents have since appealed to security agencies to intervene swiftly to restore calm, warning that persistent unrest could discourage investment and disrupt livelihoods in the oil-rich community.