By Joe Chukindi At least, one house, four vehicles and two motorcycles were burnt to ashes on Friday as two neighbouring communities...
By Joe Chukindi
At least, one house, four vehicles and two motorcycles were
burnt to ashes on Friday as two neighbouring communities in Anambra engaged
each other in hostilities.
Both communities, Aguleri and Umuleri; said to be related
had between 1999 and 2001 been involved in a fierce war, which led then
president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo to intervene, to no avail.
The communities are involved in a contest, over a large
expanse of land in between them.
It was learnt that hostilities started again on Friday,
leading to the burning down of a house, four vehicles and two motorcycles by
rampaging youths of both communities. Governor Willie Obiano hails from
Aguleri.
Police Spokesperson in Anambra, CSP Haruna Mohammed, who
confirmed the incident said situation had been brought under control, while
investigation has commenced to ascertain circumstances surrounding the
incident.
In his confirmation, Mohammed said, “On 16/1/2021 at about
7:15am there was a report of crisis between Umueri and Aguleri Communities both
in Anambra East LGA of Anambra State over a disputed area of land which both
Communities were laying claim of ownership.
“Following the distress, the command quickly dispatched joint Police teams comprising PMF/RRS and other Conventional Units in collaboration with other security agencies led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations DCP Salman Dogo to the scene. The situation was brought under control, while joint patrol is still ongoing to restore normalcy in the affected areas.”
Mohammed said no life was lost, but injuries have been
reported. He said, “One building, four vehicles and two motorcycles were set
ablaze by the warring factions.”
He added that “The Commissioner of Police CP John B.Abang
has directed the State CID Awka to carry out a discreet investigation in order
to ascertain circumstances surrounding the incident and bring perpetrators to
book.
“The CP also warned both parties to maintain peace and
explore all the legal avenues to resolve their grievances without resorting to
violence. He further assured both parties that he would contact the State
Government to intervene in the matter in order to find a lasting solution to
the lingering problem.”
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