Security men open fire on anti-EFCC protesters in Ughelli
Unknown number dead, others injured
The protest against the operation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Ughelli, Delta State took a bloody turn on Tuesday when security men opened fire on protesters.
Yet an uncertain number of protesters died, while many were injured.
Youths in Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state had turned out en masse to protest alleged harassment by officials of EFCC.
The protesters barricaded the Otovwodo axis of the East/West Road, causing heavy traffic gridlock on the busy expressway.
Heavy duty and other vehicles travelling to Warri, Port-Harcourt, Ozoro, Kwale and Asaba were trapped in the gridlock with others forced to take alternative routes to get to their destinations.
The security men later waded in, and in some of the clips available online, sporadic gunshots can be heard.
In the ensuing melee, some protesters can be seen with blood-stained shirts. At least three protesters can be seen being carried out of the protest grounds to the hospital.
While some said three people died, some others said the number was two.
Twelve vehicles, including petroleum tankers, were also set ablaze in the mayhem.
Police Public Relations Officer of the state command, Mr Bright Edafe later confirmed that 15 suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.
