The Delta State Police Command has appealed for information to aid its investigation into a clash between suspected supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area. The command received intelligence on September 15 about a planned rally and potential clash between the two groups. Despite efforts to contact organizers, written notifications were only received from both parties on September 17, ahead of the planned rally scheduled for September 18 at Angle Park, Warri.
The police had advised against using Angle Park for the rally, and the groups went their separate ways. However, on September 18, the Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Erale, deployed policemen to the proposed venue to prevent a breakdown of law and order. Patrol teams were also deployed on a "show of force" operation to maintain heightened tension and prevent a possible clash between supporters of both parties.
During the rally, police patrol teams noticed a group of irate youths mobbing an individual identified as Collins Egbara near an old building at Orumarho community in Effurun town. The officers quickly rescued Egbara from the mob, and he was rushed to the hospital for treatment. A search of the premises led to the discovery of an AK-47 rifle.
The police clarified that the AK-47 rifle was not handed over to them by anyone but was found during the search of the old building. The ownership, possession, and recovery of the rifle are subject to an ongoing investigation. Collins Egbara, who was beaten to stupor, is presently receiving treatment and is in stable condition.
The police denied reports that the rifle had been handed over to them by some persons and emphasized that the investigation would not be compromised. The Commissioner of Police urged political parties, supporters, and campaign organizers to notify the police ahead of rallies to enable adequate security arrangements.
The Delta State Government had directed security agencies to investigate the clash between suspected APC and NDC supporters in Effurun. The government expressed concern over a video of the incident circulating online and urged political parties and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully.
The police are seeking useful information that can aid the investigation, and anyone with such information can reach the command through the Police Public Relations Office on 09155570008 or 09155570007. The investigation aims to identify those responsible for the clash and the recovery of the AK-47 rifle.
Key points
- The Delta State Police Command appeals for information on the clash between APC and NDC supporters.
- The police clarify that the AK-47 rifle was found during a search, not handed over by anyone.
- The investigation into the clash and rifle recovery is ongoing.
