The Abia Police Command has confirmed the deaths of an Inspector of Police and five other individuals in Aba, Abia State, following a fatal attack on a police patrol team on Sunday. The incident occurred during a gunfight between unidentified gunmen and the patrol team.
According to SP Maureen Chinaka, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Abia, three civilians and Inspector Shehu Oyibo died in the gun duel, while two of the attackers were neutralised. The deceased civilians were identified as Chika Godliveth, Onyenaturuchi Jonah (32) from Item, Abia, and Eniobong Godsgift Clement (18) from Akwa Ibom. The assailants killed these civilians with stray bullets.
Chinaka reported that other members of the gang escaped with various bullet wounds. The attack took place at approximately 11:28 AM when armed men in an ash-colored Sienna vehicle opened fire on police personnel patrolling along Ngwa Road/Mosque Junction, Aba. The police managed to repel the attack, preventing a potentially deadlier outcome.
The bodies of the deceased have been moved to the mortuary, and an investigation into the incident is underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects. SP Chinaka assured the public of their safety, urging them to continue their daily activities without fear and to report any suspicious individuals, especially those with bullet injuries, to the nearest police station. Police operatives have been deployed to strategic locations across the state to ensure the protection of lives and property.