Ediofe trading center in Arua municipality has turned into some war zone and Business has come to a halt as Christian rioters engage all kinds of security officers in running battles.
Observers indicate that Patrol units comprising of Officers from the Field Force Unit and soldiers from the 409 brigade have taken over the area.
The development draws from last night’s clashes as police and military guards at the home of Rt. Rev. Sabino Ocan Odoki, the Bishop of Arua Diocese fired bullets to disperse an angry mob that had planned to raid the residence.
The same group would later retreat to the junction at Ediofe trading center, where they continued engaging the officers in running battled. As a result, security decided to condone off the trading center forcing traders to abandon their shops. Police has also restricted access to Arua Central Police Station.
The officers are using batons, sticks, teargas and live bullets to disperse the rioting crowds. The decision of police to cordon off Ediofe trading center area has angered residents. At total of 23 people have been arrested and taken to court. The court premises have also been cordoned off.
