By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
A tragic clash between a police officer and a suspected soldier in the Ugwuachara area of Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, has left one person dead and three others injured. The incident occurred on Wednesday during a routine patrol by officers of the Ebonyi State Police Command on the old Enugu-Abakaliki road.
According to reports, the police officers stopped a motorcyclist for a routine check. The individual, who claimed to be a soldier, was unable to provide proper identification. As the officers attempted to arrest him, the suspect resisted and a struggle ensued over the officer’s rifle. The altercation led to an accidental discharge of ammunition, which struck a bystander, resulting in their death and injuring three others.
The Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of both the police officer involved and the suspected soldier. The police command has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. In a statement, DSP Joshua Ukandu, the Police Public Relations Officer, extended condolences to the family of the deceased and assured the public that justice will be served.
“We are committed to a full investigation. Anyone found culpable in this incident will face the full extent of the law,” DSP Ukandu said.
The police command continues to assure residents of its dedication to ensuring the safety of all citizens while addressing the rising concerns of motorcycle theft in the region.