By Gabriella Ogbu
A labourer tragically lost his life, and three others were injured during an altercation between a soldier and policemen conducting a stop-and-search operation in Ebonyi State.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning in Ugwuachara village, Ebonyi Local Government Area, when a confrontation erupted between a soldier in civilian clothing and police officers on duty.
The soldier, attached to Operation Kachiyanma in Kaduna but on leave in Ebonyi, reportedly resisted being searched, leading to a scuffle.
According to Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police, Adaku Uche-Anya, the soldier attempted to disarm one of the officers during the altercation.
In the struggle, a shot was accidentally discharged, fatally striking a labourer nearby. Three other bystanders sustained injuries and are receiving medical care.
“The police did not open fire on bystanders; the bullet was accidentally discharged during the struggle with the soldier,” Uche-Anya clarified.
The soldier and the officers involved have been taken into custody as investigations continue.
The commissioner assured the public that a thorough inquiry is underway to determine the exact circumstances of the incident.
The tragic event has raised concerns about security operations and the need for improved protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future.
