Police inspector, 5 others killed as gunmen attack Police patrol team in Aba

SP Maureen Chinaka, the Police Public Relations Officer for Abia State, confirmed through an official statement that a police inspector and five others tragically lost their lives in Aba.

The deaths occurred following an attack on a police patrol unit on Sunday.

According to Chinaka, the attack resulted in the deaths of Inspector Shehu Oyibo and three civilians during a shootout with unknown assailants.

Additionally, two of the attackers were killed in the confrontation.

The civilians who lost their lives have been identified as Chika Godliveth, Onyenaturuchi Jonah, a 32-year-old from Item, Abia, and Eniobong Godsgift Clement, an 18-year-old female from Akwa Ibom. They were struck by gunfire from the attackers.

Chinaka mentioned that other members of the gang managed to flee, sustaining various degrees of injuries.

The incident occurred around 11:28 a.m. when police officers from the Rapid Response Squad, patrolling Ngwa Road/Mosque Junction, came under attack from armed men traveling in an ash-colored Sienna vehicle. Despite the assault, the police managed to fend off the attackers, preventing a potentially worse outcome.

The bodies of the deceased have been transferred to a mortuary, and an investigation is underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects. Chinaka reassured the public of their safety and encouraged citizens to continue their daily activities without fear. She also advised residents to report any suspicious individuals or those with gunshot wounds to local police stations.