The Delta State Police Command has begun an intensive search for Chief Jerry Nkeeshe, the Owelle of Onicha-Olona, and members of an armed group accused of killing three youths during a violent land-related attack on November 24.
The Command, in a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, said, “Preliminary investigations reveal that the said chief allegedly led a group of vigilantes and suspected cult members, some brazenly disguised in Army camouflage, to a parcel of land at Okwe community along the Asaba–Onitsha Road in a deliberate attempt to lay claim to the property.”
The statement continued, “The group proceeded to enforce an unauthorised quit notice, without a court order. Their illegal operation encountered resistance, resulting in a violent confrontation.”
It added, “The armed group allegedly opened fire indiscriminately, causing severe gunshot injuries to three youths, who were later confirmed dead while receiving treatment at the hospital.”
Following the killings, Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, deployed tactical squads, intelligence units and specialised investigators to track down all those involved in the deadly operation.
The CP condemned the attack, describing it as “an unprovoked, reckless, and brazen display of lawlessness that will not be tolerated under any guise.”
He appealed to residents of Onicha-Olona, Asaba and neighbouring communities to support the ongoing efforts to apprehend the suspects.
He vowed that “The Command will not relent until every perpetrator of the violence, irrespective of title, influence, or backing, is apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law,” noting that calm had returned to the affected area.
According to him, “sustained surveillance, intelligence-led patrols, and coordinated search operations are in progress to prevent any further breakdown of law and order.”
In a separate development, PUNCH Online reported that the Command arrested three suspected armed robbers in Asaba and recovered ammunition during the operation.