A clash between the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Amaeze community, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has left one policeman dead and several others injured.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when three police Hilux vans, carrying about 30 officers, reportedly intercepted an NSCDC van transporting mining equipment to a site in the community.
During the confrontation, a police officer identified as Shedrack was killed by a stray bullet while trying to disarm an NSCDC operative. Witnesses said his colleagues mistakenly shot him as they attempted to fire at the civil defence officer.
Confirming the development on Thursday, the Executive Chairman of Ivo LGA, Emmanuel Ajah, said he was briefed by the Divisional Police Officer about the confrontation. “I was informed that there was a clash involving the police and civil defence officers, and unfortunately, one police officer lost his life in the process,” Ajah said.
The deceased officer’s body has been deposited in a mortuary, while the injured are receiving treatment.
However, the Ebonyi State Police Command blamed the NSCDC for the fatal shooting. In a statement, the command’s spokesperson, SP Joshua Ukandu, said officers had gone to Ivo LGA to arrest suspects linked to a petition when the clash occurred.
According to him, the police identified themselves in the presence of NSCDC personnel and soldiers at a quarry facility. The suspects reportedly agreed to follow the police, but the NSCDC team leader allegedly blocked the officers and attempted to seize a rifle from a policeman.
“In the ensuing struggle, he discharged the firearm, fatally wounding a police officer. The officer was rushed to hospital but confirmed dead,” Ukandu stated.
He added that the NSCDC officer responsible had been arrested, while investigations were ongoing.
The police reiterated that no individual or agency had the authority to obstruct the force in carrying out its constitutional duties.