Soji Ajibola, Yenagoa - 22.08.2009

Members of six out of over 14 militant groups operating in the creeks of Bayelsa State, on Friday, surrendered about 200 rifles and two gunboats to the Federal Government’s amnesty committee ahead of today’s official handover ceremony.

The exercise, under the supervision of Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee, saw the affected militant groups turning in AK47, K2, Lar, MG and G3 rifles.

In attendance at the Peace Park venue of the occasion were General Owei Africa, Commander Ogunbos, Commander Lagos, Commander Lamin, Osein Clever and Agulu Opuoru, the second in command to late Kitikata.

Saturday Tribune gathered that half of the over 200 arms surrendered came from the camp of General Owei Africa.

Commander Ogunbos was said to have arrived at the venue with a trailer load of arms and ammunition.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Onuoha Udeka, confirmed the development.

According to him, “we are happy today. Since the amnesty started, people have been saying nothing has happened. So far, six of the militant leaders have submitted their arms.”

The commissioner commended the state government for prevailing on the militants to embrace the Federal Government’s amnesty offer.

tribune