This edition of the weekly update spotlights organized criminality in the Niger Delta with a focus on targeted criminal violence and killings in Abia State. According to data (see map above), organized criminal violence including targeted attacks on government security forces as well as counter-insurgent violence caused over 200 fatalities in Abia State between January 2020 and December 2022. Recent incidents indicate a resurgence of targeted criminal violence and killings in the State. In January 2023, for instance, a police officer and two separatist militias were reportedly killed during a gun battle along Iheorji-Ohanku Road in Ukwa West LGA. In February, separatist militias reportedly attacked a police station, injured three police officers, and stole weapons from the armory in Nkporo community, Ohafia LGA. Recently, on March 31, 2023, five members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) were allegedly killed by government security forces during a street protest at Ama Ogbonna Junction along Osusu Road in Aba North LGA. Members of the group were reportedly protesting the continued detention of their leader.

Source: https://pindfoundation.org/niger-delta-weekly-conflict-update-april-02-08-2023/