Governor Willie Obiano has announced the imposition of curfew on Aguleri, Umueri and Umuoba Anam towns, all in Anambra East local government area of Anambra State.
This is to stem the outbreak of communal violence reported in the three towns.
In a statement, Governor Obiano said the curfew will last from 7pm to 7am daily, beginning on Saturday, 16th January, 2021.
The curfew in the first instance will last for three days. Violators of the curfew would be prosecuted.
Abacityblog.com learnt that the recent hostilities started on Friday, leading to the burning down of a house, four vehicles and two motorcycles by rampaging youths of both communities.
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.”
