Family of Late Businessman Escapes Death As Gunmen Storm Residence in Night Raid

Residents of Rumuola Community in Port Harcourt Local Government Area of Rivers State were yesterday thrown into fear as unidentified gunmen reportedly invaded the residence of the family of a late businessman, Julius Uche Nwebo, in what witnesses described as a coordinated night-time attack apparently aimed at members of his family.

The incident comes nearly two years after Nwebo was murdered in 2015 allegedly following a business transaction that ended in a dispute.

According to residents, the armed men arrived at the family compound at about 10:30 p.m. carrying rifles and other dangerous weapons.

Witnesses said the assailants searched the premises in what appeared to be an attempt to locate relatives of the deceased businessman.

Finding the house deserted, the gunmen allegedly turned their anger on the property, vandalising doors and windows while firing several gunshots that sent panic through the neighbourhood.

One resident, who declined to be identified for security reasons, said the attackers appeared determined to ensure no one lived had they found occupants inside the building.

“It sounded like they were determined to make sure nobody escaped,” the resident said. “People switched off their lights and remained indoors until everything became quiet”, he added.

Community members disclosed that following Nwebo’s death, his widow and two young daughters had lived in the residence for some time before leaving the area. Many residents believe the attackers had intended to intimidate or harm members of the family but were unable to find anyone at home.

The incident has heightened anxiety within the community, with residents expressing fears over the growing spate of violent attacks.

Traditional and community leaders condemned the invasion, describing it as a disturbing act of criminality capable of undermining public safety.

They urged security agencies to strengthen patrols across the area, conduct a comprehensive investigation and ensure those behind the attack are brought to justice.

Police operatives later visited the residence after receiving reports of the incident, documenting the extensive damage caused to the property and collecting evidence that could aid the investigation.

Although no lives were lost because the house was unoccupied at the time, the attackers left behind significant destruction before fleeing the scene.

A police source familiar with the investigation, who was not authorised to speak officially, confirmed that detectives had commenced investigations and were exploring several leads to determine both the identities of the attackers and the motive behind the assault.

As of the time of filing this report, no suspects had been arrested, while residents continued to call for increased security presence to prevent further attacks and reassure members of the community.