Tensions remain elevated in the Ogbeozoma community of Okpanam, located in the Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, as residents grapple with the aftermath of a violent attack by an armed gang that resulted in the deaths of police officers.
In a formal petition addressed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, community members have urgently requested intervention regarding the recent brutal invasion of their ancestral land by a notorious criminal group.
The petition, dated July 27 and signed by legal representative Ifeanyi Ejiofor, details a harrowing incident that occurred on July 22, 2024. The gang reportedly stormed the community in approximately 15 Hilux vehicles, armed with an array of sophisticated weapons, including AK-47 and AK-49 rifles, as well as daggers and machetes. Disturbingly, some gang members were dressed in various police uniforms, further complicating the situation.
Local security personnel were targeted during the assault, with civilians also suffering brutal attacks, leading to significant property damage estimated in the billions of naira.
According to the petition, the gang has exploited connections with influential security figures to evade justice. The document states, “A few members of the criminal gang were apprehended when their vehicles could not escape the scene in time. In a desperate bid to flee, they opened fire, injuring a policeman before being subdued.”
The courageous officers managed to recover several vehicles left by the attackers, including two Hilux vans and heavy machinery used in the operation, as evidenced by attached photographs.
Furthermore, a captured associate of the gang leader, known as Ekwe Ogidi, has reportedly confessed to the group’s involvement and is providing critical information to authorities at Police Headquarters in Asaba, Delta State. The injured policeman remains hospitalized, receiving intensive medical care.
The petition highlights that Ekwe Ogidi, the alleged mastermind behind the attack, narrowly evaded capture and is currently utilizing his connections within the police force in Abuja to avoid arrest. Reports indicate that efforts by the Delta State Police Command to apprehend Chinedu Okeke, alias Ekwe Ogidi, have been unsuccessful, as he continues to elude law enforcement.
In light of these serious allegations, the community respectfully appeals to Governor Oborevwori for swift action to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that peace is restored in Ogbeozoma.
