Some unknown gunmen on Thursday night, May 6, attempted to attack Orlu Divisional Police Headquarters in Imo state.

Security operatives in a joint operation, however, repelled the attack and killed no fewer than eight of the hoodlums, The Punch reported.

Kikiotolu gathers that they also recovered seven vehicles the attackers came in for the operation.

The gun battle between the gunmen and the security operatives was said to have lasted several hours.

The gun duel created panic as people scampered for safety making the roads in Orlu town and its environs completely deserted.

Also reporting the incident, The Nation stated that the state's police spokesperson could not be reached but a senior policeman whose name was not mentioned confirmed the development.

The senior police officer reportedly said the corpses of the hoodlums and their vehicles had been taken to the police command headquarters in Owerri.

He disclosed the police divisional headquarters was not razed neither was any security personnel killed in the attack.

Meanwhile, Governor Hope Uzodinma has assured residents of Imo that their safety is guaranteed despite the pocket of attacks witnessed in the state in recent times. 

The governor made the declaration on Wednesday, May 5 when he presented vehicles and gadgets to security agencies in the state. 

Governor Uzodinma also warned criminal elements to steer clear of Imo, saying his administration will not condone any act of criminality in the state anymore.