The Commissioner of Police (CP) in Ondo State, Mr Wilfred Afolabi, has called for peace in Iwaro, Akoko South-East LGA following clashes among youths of Oka-Odo, Ebo and Owake communities during which two persons died.
According to reports, the three communities are in Akoko South-East Local Government Area of Ondo state.
Afolabi, who made the call in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Akure, urged all parties involved in the conflicts to sheath their sword.
According to the CP, violence and destruction of properties will only result in stagnation and under development.
“The clash started on Jan. 12, when youths from Oka-Odo went on a hunting expedition and were allegedly attacked by youths from Ebo.
“The Ebo youths were said to have mistaken them for individuals from Owake, with whom they have an unresolved land dispute.
“In retaliation, Oka-Odo youths mobilised and invaded Ebo community, leading to incidents of arson.
“The conflict led to casualties on both sides, and also led to the death of two persons (names and identities unknown), while the injured are currently receiving treatment in the hospital,” he explained.
The CP said that a police team, led by a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) has been deployed to the area to restore peace and prevent further escalation.
He urged the communities to seek peaceful resolutions to their disputes and avoid further loss of lives and property.
Afolabi also assured residents in the communities that the police would ensure that the perpetrators of violence on both sides were brought to justice.
NAN