The Abia police command has confirmed the killing of a police inspector and five others in Aba, Abia State, following an attack on a police patrol team on Sunday.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Maureen Chinaka verified the incident through the command’s official platform.
According to Chinaka, the attack resulted in the deaths of Inspector Shehu Oyibo and three civilians during a gunfight with unidentified assailants. Two of the attackers were also neutralized in the exchange of gunfire.
The deceased civilians have been identified as Chika Godliveth, a male, Onyenaturuchi Jonah, a 32-year-old male from Item, Abia, and Eniobong Godsgift Clement, an 18-year-old female from Akwa Ibom. They were killed by gunfire from the attackers.
Chinaka also reported that other members of the gang managed to escape with various degrees of gunshot wounds.
“Today, July 21, 2024, at about 1128hrs, police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Aba, while on patrol along Ngwa Road/Mosque Junction, Aba, were attacked by armed men in an ash-colour Sienna vehicle.
“The armed men opened fire on the police personnel and they repelled the attack, preventing what could have been a deadlier outcome,” Ms Chinaka said.
She further said that the remains of the deceased persons had been deposited at the mortuary.
She said that investigation into the incident had commenced toward arresting the fleeing hoodlums.
The PPRO assured the public of their safety, urging them to go about their lawful activities without fear.
She said that operatives of the command had been deployed to strategic locations in the state to ensure the protection of lives and property.
“Abians are also urged to report any suspicious movements or individuals with bullet injuries to the nearest police station,” she added.