This weekly update spotlights violent criminality in the Niger Delta with a focus on gun violence in Delta State. Recent data indicates a rise in gun violence, including killings by robbers, kidnappers and cult gangs, as well as armed clashes between hoodlums and security forces in Delta State. According to data (see map below), over 150 gun-related deaths were reported in the State between January and December 2020.
The frequency and intensity of gun violence in the State has increased significantly since January 2021. In January 2021, for instance, gunmen reportedly killed 3 policemen and made away with their weapons in Ekiugbo town, Ughelli North LGA. Separately, in January, gunmen reportedly attacked a security checkpoint, killed a soldier and a policeman, and made away with their arms in Oton community, Sapele LGA. Also, in January, gunmen reportedly killed 5 residents in separate incidents in Ekurede Itsekiri, Merogun, and Egbokodo communities in Warri South LGA.
Recently, on January 30, 2021, a middle aged man was reportedly killed by gunmen suspected to be assassins in Ugbomro town, Uvwie LGA.[embeddoc url="https://pindfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Niger-Delta-Weekly-Update-January-31-February-06-2021.pdf%22]
https://pindfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Niger-Delta-Weekly-Update-January-31-February-06-2021.pdf
