By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Ifite Ogwari community in Ayamelum Local Government Area of Anambra State is currently under tension following the alleged death of three persons during a violent confrontation involving youths and operatives of the state security outfit, Agunechemba.

The crisis was said to have been triggered by the death of a young man who was reportedly beaten to death for stealing on Thursday.

Following the incident, some angry youths in the community carried the corpse of the deceased in protest to the office of the security outfit, where houses were allegedly vandalized and an operational vehicle set on fire.

The situation later degenerated into a clash between the protesting youths and security operatives, resulting in the alleged death of two additional persons.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a member of the Traditional Ruling Council of Ifite Ogwari expressed regret over the incident.

He however noted that community stakeholders and the Town Union leadership have intervened to restore calm in the community.

Reacting to the development, the member representing Ayamelum Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Mr. Bernard Udemezue, described the incident as unfortunate.

He said the crisis stemmed from alleged abuse of power by the local security outfit and the overreaction of some youths of the community.

Udemezue added: "The incident is an unfortunate one that we never wished for. We are calling for calm so that the appropriate authorities can come in and handle the situation and ensure justice for all concerned."

While sympathizing with the bereaved families, the lawmaker noted that about three persons were reportedly killed in the violence.

He also condoled with the families of those who lost their loved ones and pray that God grants them the strength to bear the loss.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command had not yet been officially briefed on the incident.