Many injured as Delta communities clash over land

No less than two persons have been reportedly lost their lives during a clash on Thursday between Okwagbe and Owahwa communities in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

It was gathered that the clash which was over a land dispute between members of the two neighbouring communities, left persons dead and others injured.

The commotion caused motorists and commercial tricycle operators to resort to other routes with many commuters stranded.

According to reports, the rising tension has caused some residents within the troubled communities to flee to safe neighbouring communities.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command, on Friday said five persons are believed to be sponsors of the clash between the communities.

Confirming the incident in Asaba, the Spokesperson of the Command, DSP Bright Edafe said two persons have been confirmed dead.

He further disclosed that peace had returned to the troubled communities, while five persons suspected to be sponsors of the event have been arrested.

Edafe also noted that the command has intensified investigation to apprehend all those involved.

Explaining the development, President General of Owahwa community, John Akpoveta had said the issue was land-related.

“Although before today, they arrested two of our persons, and we were planning how to get them because we don’t know where they took them to, and about three of our persons that went to the bush were also missing and we were looking for them.

“So this morning Okwagbe boys came to our community because they believed nobody is there, when our boys heard of it they went to stop them because you won’t just allow somebody to come into your community and start destroying properties, burning houses, not knowing they were armed. By the time they saw our boys they shot at them and killed one of them, this is the body you are seeing here,” he alleged.