An army officer and a villager have been hospitalised, while several vehicles were set ablaze following a violent clash in Ette community, Ikot-Abasi Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State.

The crisis, which broke out on Tuesday, was reportedly triggered by a confrontation between the officer and suspected diesel thieves operating in the area.

A community source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told our correspondent on Wednesday that the trouble started when the soldier attempted to arrest the suspects. However, residents allegedly turned on him.

?As he tried to escape from the mob, he fired a shot, hitting one of the villagers,? the source said.

The incident sparked outrage, with angry youths barricading a section of the East-West Road, forcing motorists heading to Port Harcourt to take alternative routes for safety.

Confirming the incident, the police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, said normalcy had been restored while investigations were ongoing.

?The command is aware of the incident. It involved an officer who was pursuing diesel thieves. When he was attacked by the community, he attempted to escape and, in the process, shot one of the villagers,?John stated.

She added that both the officer and the injured villager were receiving treatment in the hospital, assuring that further updates would be provided as investigations continue. (The PUNCH)