Gunmen have reportedly killed three police officers on duty in Ohafia local government area of Abia State, The Nation reports.
But the State Government said only one policeman was killed and four others injured during the incident.
According to The Nation, the incident happened at Okagwe Ohafia in Abia North Senatorial District.
Another version has it one of the five policemen on duty at the location in Okagwe Ohafia died on the spot while the other four sustained injuries as a result of the impact of gunshot sustained in a duel with the gunmen who were said to be heavily armed.
Information about the incident, at the time of filing the report was sketchy.
The Nation learnt the situation has reportedly created panic in the area however a security source in the area said security had been beefed up.
Some indigenes alleged of mass arrest of members of the community.
But Abia Commissioner for Information John Okiyi-Kalu said the state with security agencies were investigating a security breach at Ohafia Local Government Area which led to the death of one police officer and left four others injured.
According to Okiyi-Kalu: “Preliminary information suggests that a gang of about twelve yet- to- be identified hoodlums suddenly attacked five police officers taking cover in a pin down point at a bus stop around Okagwe Junction, Ohafia, during a heavy downpour in the early hours of Monday, September 7, 2020, killing one Inspector while critically injuring the other four who are now receiving treatment at a medical facility in the state
“The government wishes to advice all medical facilities in the state to report any patient who presents with gunshot injuries to the nearest police station or the relevant Transition Council Chairman even while treating such a patient.
“Law abiding citizens are advised to go about their normal duties without fear or apprehension as the government has taken measures to protect them as well as apprehend the hoodlums as quickly as possible.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the late gallant officer who lost his life in the course of service to fatherland.
“In the same vein, we pray for the quick and total recovery of the injured.”
