Five Killed in Deadly Clash Between Cocoa Farmers and Thieves in Edo

A violent confrontation between cocoa farmers and suspected thieves in Gbelemotin, Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State, has resulted in the deaths of five individuals and left four others injured. The clash, which occurred between Thursday and Friday, also led to the destruction of several houses.

The Edo State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident, stating that five persons were confirmed dead, while four others sustained injuries during the altercation.

This tragic event underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by rural communities in Edo State, where farmers are increasingly vulnerable to attacks and theft of their produce. The state government has been implementing measures to curb such incidents, including the recent enactment of a law imposing a 21-year jail term for cult members and their sponsors.

Despite these efforts, clashes between farmers and various groups continue to pose significant threats to the safety and livelihoods of those in agrarian communities. The authorities are urged to intensify security operations and provide adequate protection to prevent future occurrences of such violent confrontations