Policeman, several others killed in Cross River communal clash

A renewed communal clash in Akamkpa local government area of Cross River State has claimed about ten lives.

investigations revealed that the clash was caused by the alleged killing of a man, who was intercepted at Uyanga on his way to Ojor with ammunition.

He was said to have been killed by the people of Uyangha and his vehicle set ablaze.
The people of Ojor on getting the information, mobilized themselves for a reprisal.
The clash, which commenced on Christmas day has led to loss of lives, including that of a policeman, with several houses set ablaze.

Residents and visitors have deserted the areas.

A resident, Chief Asukwo Ekpo disclosed that: “Uyangha people acted on information, intercepted a vehicle carrying ammunition to Ojor from an Adim man, who is an in law to Ojor people.

“The man attempted to run but the people of Uyanga shot him dead and burnt the car he was driving. The people of Ojor after suffering heavy casualties retreated and left for re-enforcement”
“The following morning, the people of Ojor after re-enforcement, came to Uyangha and encountered them. Unfortunately, Uyangha people ran out of ammunition and ran away but Ojor people capitalized on that and burnt several houses.

“Property worth several millions of thousands naira, including houses, personal effects, cash, electronics, furniture and other belongings have been destroyed.”

The Police Public Relations Officer, Ms Irene Ugbo told ERICGOSSIPTV on phone that a police officer was killed in the process of restoring peace. She said the police have drafted anti-riot policemen to the area.

“The incident started December 25th and the Police command has drafted her men to the scene; unfortunately, we lost our officer”, she said.

She could not say if the communities recorded any casualty, but added that the police have recovered the corps of the officer that was shot dead.