A statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas indicated that the skirmishes between military personnel and members of a criminal gang led by one Mr. Peregbakumo Oyawerikumo (aka Karowei), in the Ijaw communities of Ogriegbene, Endoro, Edegbene, Ojobo and Torugbene in Delta state has been reported, which had led to the death of some military personnel and gang members loyal to Mr. Peregbakumo.
The statement further indicated that the incident had prompted a manhunt for the said Mr. Peregbakumo Oyawerikumo (aka Karowei) and members of his criminal gang who intelligence report say had been perpetrating acts of criminality in the aforementioned communities.
The state government, the statement noted had accordingly urged residents in and visitors to the affected communities to stay clear of the areas of the skirmishes to avoid being caught up in any likely crossfire that may ensue from engagements between the military personnel and Mr. Peregbakumo and members of the gang.
The statement added that Mr. Peregbakumo had been declared wanted by the military authorities for the atrocities he had allegedly committed and advised residents to be vigilant and remain calm while the military operations to rid the concerned communities of the criminal elements continue.
It however reassured residents of the affected communities that the military operations were not targeted at law abiding citizens.
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