By Desire Emmanuel
The Delta State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the arrest of a top chief in Asaba, the state capital, and his gang members who were accused of killing three youths in the city during a land dispute.
The state police command said in a statement on Tuesday, November 25, that it was looking for Chief Jerry Nkeeshe, the Owelle of Onicha-Olona, and all members of the armed group responsible for the deadly attack that claimed the lives of three innocent youths on Monday, November 24, near the ‘B’ Division of the command in Asaba.
Available information by the command indicated that the said chief allegedly led a group of vigilantes and suspected cult members, some illegally wearing Army camouflage, to a parcel of land at Okwe community along the Asaba-Onitsha Expressway in a deliberate attempt to lay claim to a property in dispute.
The chief and his armed gang proceeded to enforce an unauthorised quit notice without a court order which encountered resistance, resulting in a violent confrontation.
His armed group reportedly opened fire indiscriminately, causing gunshot injuries to three youths, which eventually led to their death at the hospital where they were rushed to.
However, following the gruesome act, the chief and his gang members are currently at large while the Commissioner of Police in the state has ordered men of the tactical team, intelligence operatives and specialised investigators to track them down at all costs.
He also urged residents of Onicha-Olona, Asaba and neighbouring communities to help in the ongoing manhunt, saying the command will not relent until every perpetrator of the violence, irrespective of title, influence, or backing, is brought to justice.
