The Umuoba Anam Youth Council has demanded an urgent investigation into the alleged shootings and arrests of unarmed civilians by soldiers deployed to the area as part of a peacekeeping operation. The council's President, Engr. Peter Okuevune, expressed concern over the situation, which he said could lead to further casualties if not urgently addressed. According to Okuevune, some residents were shot and wounded while others were arrested by security personnel during operations in the community.
Okuevune commended the Federal Government and the Anambra State Government for their prompt response in deploying security personnel to the disputed area. He, however, expressed concern over what he described as the failure of some security operatives to prevent further attacks and destruction of property in Umuoba Anam. The community initially believed that the troops were genuinely committed to restoring peace, but noted that unfamiliarity with the terrain and boundary disputes might have contributed to difficulties in carrying out their duties.
Okuevune alleged that some troops fired live ammunition in an attempt to disperse or intimidate youths, resulting in injuries to residents. He said many people caught by stray bullets sustained various degrees of gunshot wounds, while some youths were arrested right inside the community. The youth council was particularly concerned about the circumstances surrounding the alleged shootings and arrests, insisting that the affected youths were not involved in any confrontation with the troops.
The youth leader questioned why troops deployed for peacekeeping duties would allegedly open fire on civilians inside the community. He said it was understandable if they were shooting in the air to scare people away, but shooting live bullets at defenceless civilians was uncalled for. Okuevune called for an independent investigation to establish what happened and determine whether the conduct of the personnel involved was consistent with their rules of engagement.
Okuevune stressed that the community had demonstrated its preference for a peaceful resolution of the crisis, adding that residents had continued to respect the security personnel deployed to the area. He acknowledged the broader security efforts in the area, noting that the troops were playing a commendable role in maintaining peace at Otuocha. The youth council urged the relevant authorities to urgently investigate the alleged shootings and arrests, clarify the circumstances surrounding the incidents, and take appropriate action where any breach of the rules of engagement is established.
The Umuoba Anam Youth Council's call for an investigation comes amid concerns that the situation could escalate into further violence. Okuevune said the community did not want further casualties arising from the actions of personnel deployed to maintain peace. He added that those responsible for any deviation from the rules of engagement should be quickly identified and punished.
The incident has raised concerns about the conduct of security personnel during peacekeeping operations. The youth council's demand for an investigation and accountability reflects the community's desire for a peaceful resolution to the crisis. Key issues that need to be addressed include the circumstances surrounding the alleged shootings and arrests, and measures to prevent further violence.
Key points
- Umuoba Anam Youth Council calls for probe into alleged shootings, arrests by soldiers in Anambra State
- Community residents were shot and wounded, while others were arrested during security operations
- Youth council demands accountability and measures to prevent further violence
