The resurgence of deadly clashes between Biakpan and Etono communities in Biase Local Government of Cross River State, has led to the loss of many lives and destruction of properties.
The two communities with their local leaders have refused to cooperate with peace efforts and this has led to the announcement of plans by the Cross River State Police Command to launch a major disarmament operation.
Commissioner of Police, Olusegun Omosanyin, while speaking with journalist in Calabar, stated that both communities have failed to embrace reconciliation efforts.
This is despite the interventions of various security agencies, and concerned stakeholders.
The police commissioner summoned the Chairman of Biase Local Government Area, Edodi Eyong, as well as traditional rulers and youth leaders from both communities to the state police command headquarters in Calabar on Wednesday.
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“We cannot continue to witness these wanton killings. No Nigerian has the right to take another life under the provisions of the constitution.
“I warned them that their conduct is pushing the government to the edge. We will move into both communities and disarm their gunmen.
“If they refuse to surrender their weapons peacefully, we will initiate a full-scale disarmament operation involving all armed forces in the state,” Omosanyin said.
He added that the state government and other security agencies have made several attempts to restore peace, including recent visits by the security adviser to the state governor.