A violent clash between operatives of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Amaeze, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has resulted in the death of a police officer and left several others injured.
The confrontation occurred on Wednesday when three police Hilux vans, carrying approximately 30 officers, allegedly intercepted an NSCDC vehicle transporting mining equipment to a site in the community.
During the altercation, a police officer identified as Shedrack was fatally struck by a stray bullet as his colleagues reportedly attempted to disarm an NSCDC operative.
While confirming the incident on Thursday, the Chairman of Ivo Local Government Area, Emmanuel Ajah, stated that he had been briefed by the Divisional Police Officer.
“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 in the process”, Ajah said.
An eyewitness, who doesn’t want to be quoted, provided further details, explaining that tensions escalated when the police blocked the NSCDC vehicle.
“During the fracas, Shedrack allegedly tried to disarm a civil defence officer. However, when other policemen attempted to shoot at the NSCDC operative, they mistakenly hit their colleague, who died on the spot, while others sustained gunshot injuries,” the witness recounted.
The deceased officer’s body has been deposited in a mortuary, while the injured are receiving medical attention.
Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Police Command confirmed the arrest of an NSCDC operative accused of obstructing lawful police duties and actions that led to the officer’s death.
In a statement, Police spokesman SP Joshua Ukandu explained that officers had gone to Ivo to arrest named suspects based on a petition and had properly identified themselves to both NSCDC and military personnel at the scene.
The suspects reportedly agreed to accompany the police, but an NSCDC team leader allegedly blocked the police vehicle and attempted to seize a rifle from one of the officers.
“Despite appeals from the suspects themselves, who urged the NSCDC personnel to allow them to follow the police, the NSCDC officer refused and forcefully tried to seize a rifle from a policeman. During the struggle, the firearm discharged, fatally wounding a police officer”, the statement read.
Ukandu confirmed that the NSCDC officer involved has been taken into custody and that a comprehensive investigation is underway.
“The Ebonyi State Command reiterates that no individual has the authority to obstruct the Nigeria Police Force in the lawful discharge of its constitutional mandate”, Ukandu added.
The incident has raised concerns over inter-agency cooperation and the need for improved communication and protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.