By Mick Oseji, Asaba
The Delta State Police Command has issued a stern warning to individuals, communities and groups against land grabbing, forcible occupation of disputed property and the use of violence to enforce claims of ownership.
The command urged anyone involved in land disputes to seek redress through the courts rather than resorting to self-help, threats or physical confrontation.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel E. Erale, issued the warning in a statement released on Friday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe.
Erale specifically expressed concern over activities around the Amachai axis of Okpanam, Asaba, and other areas of the state where land-related disputes have reportedly escalated into confrontations capable of threatening lives and disrupting public order.
The police commissioner cautioned individuals, communities and groups against forcibly taking possession of disputed land, encroaching on property, intimidating lawful occupants, destroying buildings or other property, or employing thugs to enforce claims of ownership.
He stressed that no person or group had the legal right to seize, occupy or take possession of disputed property by force, irrespective of the basis of the claim.
According to him, disputes over ownership, possession, boundaries or other interests in land must be resolved through lawful channels and a competent court, rather than through threats or violence.
Erale further warned that anyone who engages in land grabbing, forcible entry, threats to life, assault, malicious damage, intimidation or other criminal conduct under the guise of asserting ownership would face appropriate police action.
He clarified that while the police would not determine title or ownership in disputes that are purely civil in nature, the security agency would intervene where criminal offences were committed or public peace was threatened.
The commissioner said Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers across the state had been directed to respond promptly to land disputes that degenerate into criminal activities or pose a threat to public safety.
He also called on landowners, property developers, community leaders, traditional rulers, youths and other stakeholders to exercise restraint and pursue peaceful and lawful means of resolving disagreements over land.
Erale reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Delta State, stressing that no land dispute should be allowed to result in loss of life.
He warned that the police would not permit individuals or groups to disrupt the peace of the state under the pretext of pursuing or enforcing a claim to land.
