A police officer and the son of a village head have been k!lled in a violent clash between farmers and herders in Komi village, Wawa Ward, Funakaye Local Government Area of Gombe State.
The spokesperson of the Gombe State Police Command, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, who confirmed the development on Tuesday said the incident occurred on October 26, around 6:15 pm, when cattle belonging to some herders reportedly strayed into the farm of Muhammad Jibrin, popularly known as Mude, the son of the village head of Komi.
According to the PPRO, an argument ensued between the farmers and the herders, which quickly degenerated into a violent confrontation.
He said Mude was k!lled in the process, while several others on both sides sustained injuries
Buhari Abdullahi said police personnel from Wawa Outpost responded promptly and conveyed the injured to Birin Bolawa Hospital in Nafada, where Mude was confirmed d3ad while receiving treatment.
He added that on October 27, a day after the clash, a delegation comprising officials from the Funakaye Local Government Council, the Funakaye Emirate Council, and other stakeholders visited Komi village to condole with the bereaved family and assess the situation.
However, the visit turned violent when some angry youths attacked the police team deployed to maintain order.
“During the attack, one police officer, PC Muhammad Abubakar (popularly known as Al’amin), sustained severe injuries and later d!ed, while another officer, Abubakar Sadiq, was injured and is currently receiving treatment,” DSP Buhari said.
The police spokesperson further disclosed that the assailants carted away two rifles belonging to the slain officer and his colleague, which were later recovered.
He said police operatives launched a manhunt that led to the arrest of 42 suspects in connection with the violence.
“After investigation, 17 were released, while 23 remain in custody, including those linked to the recovered rifles. They will be charged to court after the ongoing investigation,” he stated, adding that some of the attackers were allegedly hired from Bojude in Dukku Local Government Area.”
The State Commissioner of Police (CP), Bello Yahaya, has appealed for calm and urged residents of Funakaye and neighbouring communities to embrace dialogue and cooperate with security agencies to prevent further loss of lives and property.
He assured that a full investigation is ongoing to ensure that all those involved in the Komi village incident are brought to justice.
