Rivers Police detain officers over fatal shooting of commercial driver

The Rivers State Police Command has detained some of its officers over the alleged shooting and killing of a commercial driver in Port Harcourt.

The command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Port Harcourt on Friday.

Agabe said the incident occurred on Thursday following an altercation between the driver, identified as Anthony Obodo, and a police officer.

The police spokesperson said the command had commenced an investigation into the incident, while the officers involved remained in detention.

According to her, the altercation degenerated into a scuffle, during which one of the officers allegedly fired a shot.

She said the bullet struck Obodo, killing him, while two other passers-by sustained injuries during the incident.

“Preliminary information indicates that an altercation occurred between the occupant and the officers, leading to a scuffle and subsequent gunshot,” she said.

Agabe identified the alleged shooter as Cpl. Alfred Louis, who was subsequently attacked and assaulted by an angry mob.

She said Louis sustained multiple injuries during the attack and was receiving attention while investigations continued.

The spokesperson said Louis and members of his team had been detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).

“The investigation will establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the law,” she said.

Agabe condemned Obodo’s killing, saying the alleged shooting did not reflect professionalism expected in policing.

She said the command would not relent in taking disciplinary action against officers found culpable of unethical or unlawful conduct.

“The command will not shield any officer engaging in unethical and unlawful conduct that brings the Nigeria Police Force into disrepute,” she said.

The spokesperson assured the public that the investigation would be conducted in accordance with the law and relevant disciplinary procedures.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the incident sparked widespread protests across Rivers on Friday.

Police operatives were subsequently deployed across affected areas to restore law and order and prevent further breakdown of public peace.

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