The Abia State police command has confirmed the deaths of a police inspector and five others during a violent attack on a police patrol team in Aba, the commercial hub of Abia, on Sunday.
State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Maureen Chinaka announced the incident via the command�s official platform.
According to Chinaka, Inspector Shehu Oyibo and three civilians were killed during a gunfight between unidentified gunmen and the police patrol team. Two of the assailants were also neutralized in the confrontation.
The civilians who lost their lives were identified as Chika Godliveth, Onyenaturuchi Jonah (32) from Item, Abia, and Eniobong Godsgift Clement (18) from Akwa Ibom. They were killed by bullets from the attackers.
Chinaka stated that other members of the gang escaped with various degrees of bullet wounds.
�Today, July 21, 2024, at about 11:28 AM, police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad in Aba were on patrol along Ngwa Road/Mosque Junction when they were attacked by armed men in an ash-colored Sienna vehicle. The armed men opened fire on the police personnel, who repelled the attack, preventing what could have been a deadlier outcome,� she said.
The bodies of the deceased have been taken to the mortuary, and an investigation into the incident has begun to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The PPRO assured the public of their safety, urging residents to continue their lawful activities without fear. She noted that police operatives have been deployed to strategic locations in the state to ensure the protection of lives and property.
�Residents of Abia are also encouraged to report any suspicious movements or individuals with bullet injuries to the nearest police station,� she added.