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The Abia State Police Command has launched an investigation into the death of five members of the same family found lifeless in their residence at Umuimo community, Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area.
The tragic discovery has left the community in shock and mourning, with residents struggling to come to terms with the loss.
According to reports, the family was last seen on Saturday, July 18. Concern grew after neighbours noticed their prolonged absence and could not reach any member of the household.
Residents reportedly forced their way into the house on Monday, where they discovered the decomposing bodies of the five family members.
Community sources suggested the victims may have died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning from a power generator, although authorities say the exact cause of death has not been established.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the matter was reported by a relative who became worried after repeated attempts to contact one of the deceased failed.
She said police officers accompanied the complainant to the residence, where repeated knocks went unanswered before the door was forced open.
"Upon entry, officers discovered the lifeless and decomposing bodies of the family. The scene was documented, photographs were taken, and the bodies were evacuated to a morgue for preservation and autopsy," Chinaka said.
The police added that investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths, while the autopsy is expected to establish the actual cause.
