- Suspected Bandits Clash with Vigilantes, Leader Missing in Ikwerre
- According to a community source, the situation began on Friday when farmers raised alarm after encountering suspected gunmen deep in the bush
- Residents now fear that the missing leader may have been captured although his whereabouts remain unknown
Tension has gripped Ipo community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State following the disappearance of a vigilante leader after a violent clash with suspected bandits.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the missing leader, identified as Ohahuru, reportedly led members of the local security team on an operation to track armed men said to have been sighted in nearby forests.
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According to a community source, the situation began on Friday when farmers raised alarm after encountering suspected gunmen deep in the bush.
“On Saturday, some farmers reported seeing strange people with guns inside the bush. Because of that, vigilante members, alongside some police officers, went into the bush to find them,” the source said.
However, the operation turned deadly when the suspected bandits allegedly opened fire on the team.
“The vigilantes got there, and the bandits started shooting. They were heavily armed. After the attack, the leader did not return, and efforts are ongoing to find him,” the source added.
Residents now fear that the missing leader may have been captured during the encounter, although his whereabouts remain unknown.
The Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government, Charles Wobodo, has yet to issue an official statement, but sources say the incident has been reported to him.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command confirmed it is aware of the situation and has commenced an investigation.
Police spokesperson ASP Blessing Agabe said authorities are still verifying the details, including the reported disappearance, as efforts continue to uncover what transpired.
