26th July, 2023
By Ijendu Iheaka
Abia Police Command has confirmed the assassination of two of its members by unknown gunmen on Tuesday evening in Aba, the state’s commercial capital.
ASP Maureen Chinaka, the command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), stated that the hoodlums killed an Inspector and a Constable.
On Tuesday evening, hoodlums attacked the convoy of Abia Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Investment, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, she claimed.
The accident happened at the well-known SAMECK Junction, which borders Ariaria International Market and connects Faulks Road and the Old Express Road.
According to a source who requested anonymity, some additional individuals were shot as a result of the ensuing panic, which led residents to shelter inside their stores and houses until late Tuesday night.
She further stated that the police returned early Wednesday morning to arrest some individuals while shooting into the air.
She stated that the police have stationed around seven Hilux vans surrounding A-Line in Ariaria as their guys wait in the parked vehicles to restore law and order.
According to Chinaka, the disturbing incident occurred about 4 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, when a bunch of hoodlums attacked the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Industry’s convoy during the commissioner’s familiarisation tour to markets in Aba metropolis.
“The convoy was en route to Ekeoha Shopping Plaza when the armed assailants opened fire. Regrettably, amidst the chaos, two Police personnel lost their lives in the line of duty.
“A police constable who was part of the security convoy was fatally shot.
“Additionally, a police inspector who was not initially part of the convoy but was on a separate assignment with a police Hilux tragically lost his life.
“Furthermore, the hoodlums set ablaze a vehicle belonging to the Ministry for Trade, Commerce, and Investment”.
Chinaka said the Abia Police Commissioner, CP Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, had assured Abia people and residents that every effort will be exerted with discreet investigations to ensure that justice is served.
The Police condemned the cowardly act of violence and swore to the steadfast pursuit of its resolve to bring the perpetrators of the act to justice.
He urged the public to remain calm, vigilant, and to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies.
“Any information, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, could prove pivotal in identifying and apprehending the culprits responsible for this heinous act.
“We emphasize our unwavering commitment to pursuing justice and upholding the triumph of good over evil.
“Together, as a united community, we shall prevail against such senseless acts of violence,” Chinaka said.
NAN