A violent clash between residents of the Kuchibiyi community in the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory and police officers has left one person dead and two others injured.

A community member, Samuel Dangana, told Daily Trust on Saturday that the unrest began when suspected land grabbers, accompanied by police operatives from Byazhin Division, attempted to seize a parcel of land in the area.

According to him, the residents mobilised and blocked the road to prevent access to the disputed land, leading to a confrontation.

“The land grabbers came with some policemen, trying to mark out portions of land. The natives blocked the road, and suddenly we heard gunshots and teargas. One person died from a bullet wound while two others were injured,” Dangana said.

He added that the injured victims were receiving treatment at a hospital in Bwari town.

Confirming the incident, the councillor representing Byazhin/Kuchibiyi Ward, Hon. Dogara J. Ahmed, said one person was killed and two others injured during the clash.

“Yes, I have just been informed that one person died while two others were injured. I just arrived in the community to get full details of the incident,” Ahmed told Daily Trust.

Spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, SP Adeh Josephine, confirmed that arrests were made following what she described as a “civil unrest” in Kuchibiyi.

She stated that the Divisional Police Officers of Byazhin and Kubwa divisions swiftly mobilised to the scene and restored order.

“A land dispute was responsible for the unrest. Some arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing,” Adeh said.

While not addressing the reported fatality and injuries, the police spokesperson quoted the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, as condemning the actions of youths who allegedly attacked police operatives.

“He warned that such behaviour will not be condoned and firm action will be taken against anyone who attacks police officers responding to distress calls,” she added.

The police assured that further updates on the investigation would be communicated in due course.