In a violent incident on Mosque Street by Ngwa Road, Aba, Abia State, gunmen attacked a police patrol team, resulting in the deaths of a police inspector and three civilians.
The attack occurred when gunmen in a Toyota Sienna bus opened fire on the police team, which was part of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS).
Despite the police team’s efforts to repel the attack, Inspector Shehu Oyibo and three civilians—Chika Godliveth, Onyeaturuchi Jonah, and Eniobong God’sgift Clement—were killed by stray bullets.
Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Maureen Chinaka, reported that the gunmen opened fire at around 11:28 am. In the exchange of gunfire, two of the assailants were killed, while others escaped with bullet wounds. The police have deposited the bodies at a city morgue.
Chinaka said, “Today, July 21, 2024, at about 11:28hrs, police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Aba, Abia State Command, while on patrol along Ngwa Road by Mosque junction, Aba, were attacked by armed assailants in an ash-colored Sienna vehicle.
The armed men opened fire on the police personnel, and the operatives repelled the attack, preventing what could have been a deadlier outcome.”
She continued, “Unfortunately, a police officer, Inspector Shehu Oyibo, and three civilians—Chika Godliveth, Onyenaturuchi Jonah, 32 years old, from Item in Bende L.G.A of Abia State, and Eniobong Godsgift Clement, 18 years old, from Akwa Ibom State—were killed by bullets from the assailants. Bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the mortuary, while investigation is ongoing to arrest the fleeing hoodlums.”
Eyewitnesses reported that more people might have been injured or killed in the attack, though this has not been confirmed by the police.
The PPRO reassured the public, stating, “The public should go about their lawful activities without fear, as officers have been deployed to strategic locations in the state to ensure the protection of life and property.”
She also encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities or individuals with bullet injuries to the authorities.