A 24-year-old man, identified only as Ebuka, has been confirmed dead after being shot by a group of police officers along Onitsha/Owerri Road in Anambra State.

According to an eyewitness named Harrison Gwamnishu, who claimed to have detailed knowledge of the situation, said Ebuka was shot by the police on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, while traveling on the highway.

Gwamnishu reported that Ebuka was promptly taken to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.

Gwamnishu further stated that the officers involved in the shooting have since gone into hiding to avoid accountability.

Reacting to the incident, the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Muyiwa Adejobi described the incident as tragic, assuring that the Force would take stringent measures to bring those responsible to justice.

“This is indeed tragic. The Force Headquarters has directed the Commissioners of Police in Anambra and Imo to locate the officers involved and conduct a thorough investigation.”

“The Force Headquarters will not tolerate such actions and will closely monitor the investigation. May his soul rest in peace, and justice must be served.”

The Anambra State Police Command has also confirmed that the State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam has ordered the detention of the patrol team members implicated in the shooting.

The case has been referred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka for a comprehensive investigation.

“The CP has directed the immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka.”

“The command urges for calm and assures that a thorough investigation will be conducted to ensure justice. Further updates will be provided.”

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about police brutality in Nigeria. Last week, students from Ebonyi State University (EBSU) raised alarms about alleged police extortion, harassment, and intimidation in Abakaliki and its environs.

They expressed frustration over the police’s failure to uphold their duty to protect citizens, describing their conduct as “worrisome” and “unbecoming.”

President of the Student Union Government at Ebonyi State University, Tobias Oshim said he has written a letter to Commissioner of Police, Augustine Ogbodo, urging him to address these issues and ensure justice is served.