A tragic incident has rocked the Anambra State Police Command following the accidental shooting of a police officer by his own 10-year-old son at their family residence in Awka.
The officer, Inspector Okolie Amechi, was fatally shot on Saturday evening when his young son reportedly mishandled the inspector’s service AK-47 rifle.
According to police sources, the child, unaware of the firearm’s condition, pulled the trigger, firing a shot that struck his father in the back and also injured his younger brother in the hand.
The scene quickly turned chaotic as family members and neighbours rushed to render aid.
Inspector Amechi was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, but was pronounced dead upon arrival by the attending physician.
His injured son is said to be receiving treatment and is responding positively.
The Anambra State Police Command, in a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the heartbreaking event and expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
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“The Command is deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident that led to the death of Inspector Okolie Amechi,” Ikenga said. “The incident, which occurred on June 15, was the result of an accidental discharge involving the officer’s 10-year-old son, who was unaware of the rifle’s readiness to fire.”
He added that the AK-47 rifle has since been recovered, and the body of the late officer has been deposited at the mortuary.
Offering condolences to the bereaved family, Ikenga assured the public that further developments surrounding the incident will be communicated as investigations continue.
The tragic event has sparked renewed calls for stricter protocols on weapon storage and safety within police households, especially in homes where young children are present.
As the family mourns their devastating loss, the Anambra Police Command has pledged to provide the necessary support during this difficult time.