ABAKALIKI, Nigeria — A deadly assault by unidentified assailants on Monday, May 22, 2023, has left a police inspector dead and two of his colleagues gravely injured in Abakaliki, the capital city of Ebonyi State, according to the Ebonyi Police Command.
Onome Onovwakpoyeya, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.
In the wake of the attack, the command is preparing an official statement to present to the press.
“I am making a press statement now, and I will make it available to the media when I am done,” Onovwakpoyeya said.
She emphasized the gravity of the situation and assured the public that every effort is being made to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Philip Onwe, a witness at the scene, recounted the terrifying moments when the gunmen opened fire.
“They attacked at a checkpoint, shooting indiscriminately,” Onwe told NAN.
“The inspector and two other officers were caught in the hail of bullets.”
The inspector was fatally wounded, while the other two officers sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
The audacious attack, which has sent shockwaves through the community, raises new questions about security in the region.
The identity of the assailants and their motive remains a mystery as the police embark on an intensive investigation.
While the search for answers continues, the loss of the police inspector, whose name has not been released, is deeply felt.
The tragic incident is a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face in their quest to maintain peace and order.
The event also underscores the need for increased security measures in Ebonyi, a state that has witnessed its fair share of security challenges.
As the community grapples with the shock of the sudden violence, their thoughts turn to the brave officers who put their lives on the line every day.
