The Edo State Police Command confirmed five deaths and four injuries after a violent clash in Gbelemotin.
Cocoa farmers and alleged produce thieves clashed in this agrarian community in Ovia South-West Local Government Area.
The conflict erupted on Thursday night when an Ikale cocoa farmer hired vigilantes to protect his farm. These vigilantes reportedly killed four suspected poachers, identified as Izon boys, intensifying tensions.
By Friday morning, individuals sympathetic to the deceased Izon boys launched a retaliatory attack. This counterattack caused further violence, resulting in additional casualties and property destruction.
Local sources confirmed that individuals set several houses ablaze during the unrest.
Authorities now fear discovering more bodies in the surrounding bushlands as the situation unfolds further.
“The crisis started when some Izon boys were allegedly stealing cocoa belonging to Yoruba farmers in Madotti Camp,” a source, who requested anonymity, told reporters.
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“The vigilantes intervened and killed four of them. This led to a counter-attack by Izon boys on Friday morning. Soldiers and security personnel have since been deployed, but there are still bodies in the bushes.”
The source further noted that the Yoruba farmers in the area have likely suffered significant losses due to the violence and destruction of property.
Moses Yamu, spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, confirmed the incident in a statement.
“Five persons died, and four others sustained injuries during a clash between Gbelemotin and Maidoti communities,” he confirmed. The incident has heightened concerns over escalating violence in the region.
Security forces, including soldiers and police officers, swiftly deployed to the area to restore order. They are working to prevent further escalation while investigations continue to identify and prosecute those responsible.
This tragic event highlights rising tensions in agrarian communities over resource ownership and security. Local authorities must act decisively to address these issues and foster peaceful coexistence among residents.
