From Obinna Odogwu, Awka
Some youths and police officers clashed on Saturday morning in Aguleri community, Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Although there were conflicting accounts as to what happened in the town, sources said that some youths who had their misgivings about the activities of some security operatives in the area organised a protest to register their anger.
Some other accounts narrated that the protesting youths wanted to thwart the security arrangements put in place to secure the community and her neighbours; a move that was resisted by the local vigilante and the police.
Contrary to the accounts that gunmen invaded the community, sources in the town said that the clash was an internal issue already being addressed by the community’s leadership.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident but dismissed the report that gunmen invaded the community.
He also said that no life was lost during the clash.
“The situation has been brought under control, on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Echeng Echeng.
“The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations led police operatives to the scene and prevented the youths from attacking the police station. We have made some arrests. In fact, we have arrested over 15 persons and recovered some dangerous weapons.
“Meanwhile, other means of resolving the conflict is in place, and that is to hear from the aggrieved youths. We have also intensified patrols in the area, aimed at enhancing peace and safety,” he said. He also added that additional details would be released later.