A confrontation between operatives of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Amaeze community, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has resulted in the death of a police officer and injuries to several others.
The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday, when three police Hilux vans carrying around 30 officers allegedly intercepted an NSCDC van transporting mining equipment to a local site.
An altercation broke out, during which the police allegedly opened fire on the civil defence team.
According to eyewitness reports, a police officer identified as Shedrack was fatally shot by a stray bullet during the attempt to disarm an NSCDC officer. Some officers also sustained gunshot wounds in the process.
Confirming the incident, Executive Chairman of Ivo LGA, Emmanuel Ajah, said he was briefed by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), who described it as a clash between “sister security agencies.”
“I was informed by the DPO that there was a clash involving the police and civil defence officers in the Amaeze community, and unfortunately, one police officer lost his life,” Ajah said.
An eyewitness claimed the fatal shot was fired mistakenly by a fellow officer while trying to subdue a civil defence operative during the scuffle.
The body of the deceased has been deposited in a mortuary, while injured officers are receiving treatment.
In an official statement, Ebonyi Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, said the incident occurred as police officers were attempting to execute an arrest based on a petition.
The suspects were located at a quarry site under NSCDC and military protection.
Ukandu explained that while the suspects agreed to go with the police, the NSCDC team leader intervened, blocking the police vehicle and refusing to allow the arrest.
“Despite the suspects themselves urging the NSCDC officers to let them go with the police, the NSCDC team leader attempted to seize a rifle from one of our officers. In the struggle, the firearm discharged, fatally wounding a police officer,” the statement read.
The NSCDC officer involved has since been arrested, and a full investigation is now underway.
The Ebonyi State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the law and emphasized that no individual or agency has the authority to obstruct police duties in the lawful execution of their responsibilities.
