The Anambra State Police Command has arrested six suspects for attacking security operatives on duty during the aborted New yam celebration.
The Command said that the suspects were led by one Nwokoye, adding that they have been transferred to the State Criminal investigations Department for further questioning
A statement on Sunday in Awka by the State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Ikenga Tochukwu, said the situation was being monitored, adding that further development would be communicated to the public soon.
He maintained that policemen were posted to the Palace of the Awka Chief on Saturday to make sure there was no break down of law and order.
According to Tochukwu: “The Anambra State Police Command today 11/9/2022 wishes to let the members of the public know especially Ndi Anambra that, the deployment of police operatives yesterday 10/9/2022 within the residence of Augustine Ndigwe in Awka, is to make sure there is no break down of law and order in Awka Community.
“This is following information of the intended celebration/occasion that poses threat to public peace/disturbance in the community”.
On Saturday, there was tension in the capital City, following the invasion of security operatives at the residence of the High Chief, who had been parading himself as the traditional ruler.
But during the planned celebration of New yam festival, the State Government of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, ordered security operatives to seal the area.
There were shootings in the air to disperse the crowd, while security operatives also released teargas.
Commissioner for local government and Chieftaincy matters, Hon Collins Nwabunwanne, told newsmen that what Ndigwe was doing was illegal as Awka has not recognized any other traditional ruler other than the person of His Majesty, Obi Gibson Nwosu.
The State Government further warned that if Ndigwe fails to stop the impersonation as monarch, he would be arrested and prosecuted without further delay.
