A confrontation between a soldier and police officers in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, has resulted in the death of one person and injuries to three others.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning in Ugwuachara village, Ebonyi Local Government Area, during a stop-and-search operation conducted by the police. According to reports, the altercation began when officers attempted to search a soldier on a motorcycle. The situation escalated when the soldier allegedly tried to disarm one of the policemen, leading to the accidental discharge of a firearm. A bystander, a laborer, was fatally struck by the stray bullet.
The Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police, Adaku Uche-Anya, confirmed the incident. She clarified that the firearm discharged during the struggle and emphasized that it was not a case of indiscriminate shooting by the police.
“One person died, and three others were injured but are currently receiving treatment in the hospital. The soldier involved, who is stationed in Kaduna, and the policemen are now in our custody as investigations continue,” she stated.
The police have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences of such incidents.