The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 12 suspects in connection with a clash at Oyingbo Market, in the Ebute Meta area of the state.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest to our correspondent on Monday.
PUNCH Metro gathered that the fight, which occurred on Saturday and involved two rival cults, was over the control of ticketing fees collected from motorcyclists and bus drivers in the community.
The clash was said to have led to the death of a resident, while a popular hotel in the area was burnt along with some shops and vehicles.
The Head of the Lagos Mainland Security Team, Ishola Agbodemu, who spoke to our correspondent on Monday, said weapons were freely used during the mayhem.
He said, “It was a clash involving the Willoughby Boys and the Otto Boys. These boys are fond of carrying guns and stealing people’s belongings. On Saturday, they initially started fighting over territory until it escalated because of the death of an Otto boy.
“The Otto boy who was shot dead was popularly called Coded. His group, out of vengeance, set fire to shops and vehicles.”
A source told our correspondent that 44 suspects were arrested by the police on the night of the incident.
He said, “A total of 17 males and 27 females were arrested in connection with the crisis. They were handed over to Area C Police Command.
The community is calm now.”The state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, said 12 suspects were in custody.
He said, “The incident happened on Saturday and 12 suspects have been arrested.” (Punch)