The Delta State Police Command has launched an investigation into the killing of a youth identified as Don Cross and subsequent attacks on community leaders and public property in Okpara Inland, Ethiope East Local Government Area.
The unrest reportedly followed a drug raid allegedly conducted by personnel of an unidentified security outfit on October 12, during which the youth was reportedly shot. He later died while receiving medical treatment.
The Commissioner of Police, Samuel Erale, visited the community on Wednesday to assess the damage and engage community leaders on efforts to restore peace.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, said preliminary investigations indicated that some individuals exploited the incident to unleash violence on community leaders and destroy property.
According to the police, the attackers set two vehicles belonging to the community’s President-General ablaze and damaged his residence. The residence of the Vice President-General was also reportedly attacked and destroyed.
The hoodlums also vandalised the community town hall and burnt two vehicles, including a motorcycle used for vigilante operations.
Following the attacks, a combined team of police operatives from the Ughelli Area Command, Isiokolo Division and military personnel was deployed to the community to restore law and order.
Eralе expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and condemned the violence, ordering a thorough investigation into both the fatal shooting and the destruction of property.
He directed security operatives to identify and arrest those responsible, urging individuals involved in the attacks to voluntarily present themselves for questioning.
The police commissioner warned that anyone who failed to comply would be tracked down, arrested and prosecuted.
He maintained that grievances, regardless of their nature, did not justify taking the law into one’s hands, stressing that the command would not tolerate violence, intimidation or the wanton destruction of property.
Eralе also appealed to residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and avoid reprisal attacks, assuring them of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property in Okpara Inland.
About the Author
