Gunmen dressed in military uniforms have reportedly invaded Akamama Community in Opuama Kingdom, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The attack comes barely 10 days after a previous assault on the community.

It was gathered that the gunmen, who arrived in gunboats, were accompanied by workers from an unnamed pipeline surveillance company.

They allegedly destroyed property worth millions of naira, creating economic hardships and halting socio-economic activities in the coastal community.

The fear of the gunmen forced many residents, including children, men and women, to flee into nearby bushes for safety.

Speaking on the development, an indigene of the community, Elder Amaowei Sunday, narrated his ordeals in the hands of the invaders and appealed for urgent government intervention.

He said: “They (gunmen) were pursuing people. Even yesterday I was captured; they beat me up and destroyed my belongings.”

He also called on the federal and state governments to intervene by cautioning the said surveillance contractor to avoid further chaos in the community.

Also speaking, Ms Catherine Allen, noted that the latest invasion of the community had become one too many.

On his part, Mr. Osain Geoffrey stated that instead of invading the community, the leadership of the community should have been invited.

“If there is anyone found wanting in the community, they should come and meet the chiefs in the community, meet the CDC chairman and tell them this is what we came for and not to put fear in the lives of the people,” he said.

He further called on Governor Douye Diri and relevant stakeholders as well as security agencies to intervene in the issue to avoid further breakdown of law and order.

Calls to the mobile phone of Bayelsa State police spokesman, Musa Mohammed, indicated they were unreachable. (The Nation)

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