Fight over ownership of market land in Delta leaves two dead, others injured
Youths from two ‘warring’ communities in Ughelli, Delta state have killed two people and injured several others in a fight over the ownership of the land in which the Ughelli Main market is situated.
The incident was a fresh installment of a feud that has been ongoing for many decades between Ekuigbo and Iwhreko communities as each lay claim to the land and expect to collect levies at the market.
In the course of the shootout, it is reported that two people lost their lives and many others incurred varying degrees of injury. Property and vehicles were also vandalized as the gun battle persisted in the conflict.
The youth leader of Iwhreko community is said to have been killed early this year over collection of levies at the market. And this new challenger is believed to be a show of force to determine who will be dreadfully allowed to control the market.
The police spokesperson in the state, Andrew Aniamaka who had already expressed frustration over the rise of criminality in the state was not forthcoming with answers on the situation.
It was gathered that the shooting which started in the morning was eventually brought to halt when the police and soldiers arrived at the scene and dispersed the armed youths.
No arrests were made in connection to the incident. The injured individuals are currently receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital.
