Police arrest 5o pro-Biafra agitators in Anambra

At least five persons were allegedly shot and 50 persons arrested Tuesday by the security operatives in Anambra state during the 17 years’ anniversary procession of the Chief Ralp Uwazuruike faction of MASSOB known as Biafra Independent Movement (BIM).

BIM Religious Administrator, Rev. Apostle Ezichukwu, who spoke to newsmen on his mobile phone claimed that more than 50 members were arrested, 20 missing and five persons were allegedly shot by the Police.

Rev. Ezichukwu, who said that they were non-violent in their procession wondered why the security operatives went ahead to arrest their members.

He alleged that the team of security personnel from the Army, Police, Navy and NSCDC was detaining MASSOB members at the Army Barracks, Onitsha, the State CID, Awka and other police stations.

Also speaking, the Anambra North Zonal Leader of MASSOB, Mr. Benjamin Omenka, who appealed for their release, urged members of the group to be patient.

According to him, the present call for restructuring by some segments of the country came about as a result of the fear for Biafra independence by those who have tied the country down.

“Let the whole world know that we are resolute in our stand for a Biafra Republic.

“It is not compulsory that we shall remain one indivisible nation so they should allow us to go to our Promised Land”, he said, adding that the agitation would remain a peaceful one.

Newsmen saw a large contingent of combined army, police and DSS as well as other security operatives patrolling strategic areas of Anambra State, especially the commercial city of Onitsha.

Confirming the arrests, the Anambra state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mrs. Nkeiruka Nwode, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) said that only 14 people were arrested.

She said the arrest was carried out in different parts of Onitsha during a procession by the group to mark the 17 years’ anniversary of the body.

The PPRO, who explained that the persons were arrested for illegal procession, noted that no life was lost as at the time of filing report.