A violent clash between operatives of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ebonyi State has left one policeman dead and several others injured.
TIMES OF NIGERIA collected that the incident occurred on Wednesday in the Amaeze community, Ivo Local Government Area, when three police Hilux vans carrying about 30 officers intercepted an NSCDC vehicle transporting mining equipment.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the police opened fire on the van, sparking a confrontation.
A policeman identified as Shedrack was reportedly killed by a stray bullet during the fracas as officers attempted to disarm an NSCDC operative.
Confirming the incident, Ivo LGA Chairman, Emmanuel Ajah, said he was briefed by the Divisional Police Officer.
“Unfortunately, one police officer lost his life in the process,” he told reporters.
The Ebonyi State Police Command, however, gave a different account.
In a statement signed by spokesperson SP Joshua Ukandu, the Command alleged that NSCDC operatives obstructed a lawful arrest and that one officer discharged his firearm during a struggle, fatally wounding a policeman.
“The NSCDC officer responsible has since been arrested, while a full-scale investigation is ongoing,” the statement read.
“No individual has the authority to obstruct the Nigeria Police Force in the lawful discharge of its constitutional mandate.”
The deceased officer’s body has been deposited in a mortuary while injured personnel are receiving treatment.
