TheCable

A policeman has been killed in Gberigbe area of Ikorodu, Lagos state, after suspected hoodlums invaded the community.

The suspected hoodlums, identified by residents as “land-grabbers”, were said to have invaded the community over the weekend.

Two other persons were also killed during the fracas.

Olaiwola Akanmu, a community leader in Gberigbe, told NAN that the hoodlums attacked the community as part of attempts to forcefully take possession of a piece of land in the area.

“They killed two ‘omo oniles’ and one of the four policemen on duty here,” Akanmu, secretary to the Orelade/Ladera royal family in Gberigbe, said.

“In a bid to take over some people’s land, some land-grabbers led hoodlums suspected to be cultists to invade our community.

“The hoodlum shots sporadically and eventually a policeman and two people lost their lives. Since then, people have started living in fear.

“I am calling on the police IG and CP Lagos state to help restore peace and save our community from the hands of hoodlums and land-grabbers.”

According to him, the matter has been reported to the police, but residents are worried about the possibility of a reprisal attack.

Also speaking on the incident, Olugbenga Mayan, another community leader, called for the intervention of the Lagos government to address the problem of land-grabbing in the state.

“We are calling on government and security agencies to assist us. Commercial activities have been grounded; residents no longer sleep with their two eyes closed,” he said.

Monsuru Adeniji, a resident, said the incident had caused hardship on residents, as transporters are afraid of plying the route due to fear of attack.

When contacted, Adekunle Ajisebutu, Lagos police command spokesman, said: “I will contact you as soon as I’m briefed on the matter.”

The development comes months after the Lagos government announced that persons convicted of land-grabbing will be imprisoned for six years without the option of fine.