Men of the Crack Squad of the Ebonyi State Police Command reportedly caused a tragic incident on Wednesday at Ugwuechara Junction in the state capital. The operation led to the death of an unidentified laborer and left three others critically injured.
The situation reportedly escalated when members of the Crack Squad attempted to confiscate a motorcycle from a bike rider they suspected of being involved in fraudulent activities, commonly referred to as "Yahoo business." Eyewitnesses narrated that the bike rider identified himself as a military officer, which seemed to provoke further action from the police.
According to an onlooker, the police officers allegedly began to molest the rider, forcibly removing his cap and assaulting him with their firearms. In an apparent attempt to defend himself, the rider resisted and appeared to make an effort to disarm one of the officers. During the altercation, one of the officers opened fire, striking a laborer who was among the crowd of job seekers gathered at the junction.
The gunfire also injured three other individuals, who were immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment. The deceased and the bike rider were subsequently taken to the police station by the Crack Squad.
Hon. Obinna Mbam, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Internal Security for Ebonyi Local Government Area, confirmed the incident. He assured the public that the situation has been brought under control and emphasized that those responsible for the violence would face justice.
The tragic event has raised concerns about police conduct and the excessive use of force. As investigations continue, the community awaits justice for the victims of this unfortunate incident.
