Niger state Police Command says it has arrested 16 persons in connection with a communal clash between Gaba and Anfani communities which claimed eight lives in December 2018.
Daily Trust recalls that misunderstanding had arose between the two community which have cohabited peacefully for several decades over a parcel of land.
Our correspondent gathered that the disputed land was allegedly given by Gaba community to their Anfani neighbour a long time ago.
Disagreement allegedly ensued when Gaba community reached out to Anfani neighbour to reclaim the land leading to litigation at the high court in Bida which was said to have ruled in favour of Gaba.
It was learnt that an attempt to enforce the court order had resulted in the clash which led to the loss of eight lives, with many also sustaining injuries.
A statement by the spokesman of the state police command DSP Muhammad Abubakar Dan-Ina on Saturday said the men of the Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department(SCIID) arrested 16 suspects some of which were identified by victims of the clash.
The suspects according to the statement include Mohammed Mohammed, 33; Mohammed Baba Shaba, 40; Mohammed Umaru, 45; Ndagi Ndaghitsu 45; Mohammed Isa, 28; Alh. Mohammedu Sheshi, 60; Aliyu Mohammed, 25; Abubakar B. Saliu, 45 and Mohammed liman 45.
Others are Adamu Mohammed BabaMinin, 45; Aliyu Buhari, 35; Abdulmalik Abdullahi , 28; Ibrahim Mohammed, 25; Alh. Ali Baisa, 35; Adamu Baba Abdullahi, 30 and Adamu Mohammed, 45.
According to the statement, all the arrested suspects are from Anfani community.
The statement said the suspects would be charged to court when investigation into the matter is concluded.
The statement warned Nigerlites to refrain from taking laws into their hands as the Command will not relent to arrest and prosecute any person or group aiding, abetting or committing any act of violence capable of causing breach of peace in the state.
Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.
