Police, Civil Defence Clash in Ebonyi: One Officer Killed, Others Injured

A violent confrontation between operatives of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Amaeze community, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has left one police officer dead and several others injured.

Chairman of Ivo LGA, Emmanuel Ajah, confirmed the incident on Thursday, noting that he was briefed by the Divisional Police Officer of the area.

“I was informed by the DPO that there was a clash involving the police and civil defence officers in Amaeze community, and unfortunately, one police officer lost his life in the process,” Ajah said.

Community eyewitnesses, who asked not to be named, alleged that the deceased officer, identified simply as Shedrack, may have been killed by accidental friendly fire.

According to accounts, the clash began when three Toyota Hilux vans carrying about 30 policemen allegedly intercepted and opened fire on an NSCDC vehicle transporting mining equipment. During the chaos, Shedrack reportedly attempted to disarm an NSCDC operative. However, in the ensuing gunfire, he was mistakenly hit by his colleagues’ bullets. He died on the spot, while others sustained injuries.

The deceased officer’s body has been deposited in the morgue, while the injured are receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.

As of press time, both the Ebonyi State Police Command and the NSCDC are yet to issue official statements. Attempts to reach Police spokesperson SP Joshua Ukandu for comments were unsuccessful.