Two officers killed as gunmen attack Abia commissioner’s convoy

Gunmen on Tuesday, attacked the convoy of Chimezie Ukaegbu, Abia commissioner for trade, commerce and investment, killing two police officers.

Ukaegbu was on his way to the Ekoha shopping plaza for a familiarisation tour of markets in Aba, when the gunmen opened fire on his motorcade.

The incident occurred at SAMECK junction, around Ariaria international market and the old express road.

During the attack, a police constable attached to the convoy was shot dead.

Maureen Chilaka, spokesperson of Abia police command, said another police inspector at the scene for a separate assignment, also lost his life.

She said the police returned to the scene of the incident on Wednesday morning to arrest some persons.

She said the command has stationed over seven Hilux vans around A-Line in Ariaria, while the officers wait in parked vehicles to restore law and order.

“The convoy was en route to Ekeoha Shopping Plaza when the armed assailants opened fire. Regrettably, amidst the chaos, two police personnel lost their lives in the line of duty,” she said.

“Furthermore, the hoodlums set ablaze a vehicle belonging to the ministry for trade, commerce, and investment.”

Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, Abia police commissioner, has assured residents that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.

He urged the public to remain calm and vigilant and to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies.

“Any information, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, could prove pivotal in identifying and apprehending the culprits responsible for this heinous act,” he said.

“We emphasize our unwavering commitment to pursuing justice and upholding the triumph of good over evil.

“Together, as a united community, we shall prevail against such senseless acts of violence.”