Tension has gripped Ipo Community in Ikwerre Local Council of Rivers State, following the disappearance of a local vigilante leader after a violent encounter with suspected bandits in nearby forests.

The missing leader, identified as Ohahuru, was said to have led members of the Ipo Security Planning and Advisory Committee on a mission to track armed men reportedly sighted in the area.

A community source said the incident began on Friday after reports emerged of unidentified gunmen believed to be operating in the forests. Farmers had raised the alarm after encountering armed individuals deep in the bush.

“On Saturday, some farmers reported seeing strange people with guns inside the bush. Because of that, vigilante members, alongside some police officers, went into the bush to find them,” the source said.

The operation turned violent when the suspected bandits reportedly opened fire on the security team.

“The vigilante group got there, and the bandits opened fire on them. They have sophisticated weapons. After that, the leader of the vigilante group did not return. They are still searching for him,” the source added.

Residents fear the missing leader may have been captured during the confrontation, though his whereabouts remain unknown.

The Chairman of Ikwerre Local Council, Charles Wobodo, has yet to comment on the incident, although community sources said the matter has been reported to him.

Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command confirmed awareness of the development and said an investigation is underway.

The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Blessing Agabe, said the command is still verifying details of the incident, including the reported disappearance of the vigilante leader. (The Guardian)