Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
The Abia State Police Command has launched an investigation into the death of five members of the same family whose bodies were discovered inside their residence in Umuimo community, Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area.
The tragic discovery has left residents in mourning and raised questions about what led to the deaths.
Police spokesperson DSP Maureen Chinaka said the incident was reported by a relative who became alarmed after repeatedly failing to reach one of the victims.
According to her, officers accompanied the complainant to the family’s home in Umuimo Village, where they found the house locked and unresponsive.
“Upon arrival, repeated knocks yielded no response. They subsequently forced entry into the house, where they discovered the lifeless and decomposing bodies of their brother and his family.
“The crime scene has been visited. A preliminary visual inspection of the bodies was conducted, and photographs taken. The corpses have been deposited at the morgue for preservation and autopsy. Investigation is ongoing.”
Residents said the family had not been seen since July 18, prompting growing concern within the community. Their prolonged absence eventually led neighbours to check on them, resulting in the discovery of the bodies on Monday.
While some community members suspect carbon monoxide inhalation from a power generator may have been responsible, authorities said the cause of death has not been established.
