Five In Police Net Over Fracas At Botched New Yam Festival In Awka
Five suspects have been arrested by the Police Command in Anambra over an attack on Police personnel who were deployed to stop an illegal New Yam Festival organised by Chief Augustine Ndigwe on Saturday.
Ndigwe who had been parading himself as the traditional ruler of Awka against the throne of Igwe Gibson Nwosu who was elected by Awka people and recognised by the State government.
The government had issued a stern warning to Ndigwe to stop parading himself and refrain from performing traditional rites including New Yam festivals on behalf of Awka people.
In a Statement by DSP Toochukwu Ikenga, Police Public Relations officer in Anambra, the arrested persons had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department.
Ikenga said the timely intervention of the Police ensured there was no breakdown of law and order in the town.
According to him, the deployment of police operatives on Sept. 10 within the residence of Augustine Ndigwe in Awka, is to make sure there is no breakdown of law and order in Awka Community.
“This is following information of the intended celebration/occasion that poses threat to public peace snd disturbance in the community.
“One Mr Nwokoye who led the attack on police officers is in custody with five others and they have been transferred to the State Criminal investigations department for investigations.
“The situation is being monitored and further development shall be communicated please,” he stated.
