By Emma Amaize & Samuel Oyadongha

BURUTU—ARMED pirates have invaded the Burutu-Warri waterways and riverine communities in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State, where they robbed passengers of valuables and carted away speedboats and engines.

A source told Vanguard that panic has gripped riverine communities in the local government area and environs following the audacious activities of the criminals.

Meanwhile, armed men suspected to be sea robbers, weekend,  invaded Okoroba, home town of late Oronto Douglas, in  Nembe Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, forcing the natives to flee their homes before carting away valuables.

The invaders, about 10 in number, armed with sophisticated weapons, reportedly raided homes and retail outlets in the coastal community.

Regent of the community, Chief Romani Ide, who confirmed the invasion, said that the gunmen spent some time in the community terrorizing the natives.

He said: “The armed men arrived at 10.30p.m., Saturday and left at 1a.m., on Sunday. Most of the youths, who attempted to resist the raid were injured, while others took refuge in the bush.”

A prominent trader in the community, Obababe Topman,  whose shop is located close to the waterfront, was reportedly disposed of huge cash.

The hoodlums also carted away generators, refrigerators and food stuffs.