The police command in Ebonyi has arrested no fewer than 26 persons in connection with the crisis and killings of December 26 in the Ekoli-Edda Community in the Afikpo South Local Government Area of the state.

The incident claimed three lives, including a youth leader in the community identified as Eseni Egwu, Eme Orji, younger brother to Ebonyi APC chairman and an Inspector of Police.

In a press conference, Chris Anyanwu, the command spokesperson, said the police also recovered one AK-47 rifle and live ammunition, two pump action rifles, one Dane gun, and three AK-47 magazines, amongst others.

Mr Anyanwu noted that some properties destroyed during the incident include a residential building belonging to Ebonyi APC chairman Stanley-Okoro Emegha, a Toyota Hilux van and one motorcycle.

He said others were a Toyota Sienna space bus, one grocery shop, doors and windows.

The police spokesperson explained that out of the suspects so far arrested, 14 persons would be arraigned in court.

“They would be arraigned as prima facie cases of conspiracy, armed robbery, arson, unlawful possession and malicious damage, which have been established against them.

“The command is advising the youth from all communities and clans in Ebonyi to learn positive lessons from the ill-fated incident of December 26 that befell Ekoli-Edda and guard against its replication,” Mr Anyanwu added.

(NAN)