The Abia state Police command says that a joint convoy patrol team comprising police operatives, Nigerian Army personnel, and members of Operation Crush, on patrol in Aba, Abia State on Monday morning shot and killed a suspect in an encounter with a gang of suspected criminals moving in vehicles suspected to be carrying armed men, moving towards Port Harcourt Express Road.
According to a release endorsed by the Police Public Relations Office, Abia Police Command, ASP Maureen Chinaka, the patrol team pursued and intercepted them around Umuode Village which led to an exchange of gunfire and the hoodlums being overpowered, abandoning their vehicles and took to flight, with gunshot injuries.
The release further states that a Sienna vehicle with bloodstains was recovered at the location and subsequently, an abandoned Toyota Highlander SUV with the corpse of an unidentified suspect was recovered at Adanegbuazu along Mbamaonyeukwu Hotel Road in Umuode, Aba.
It further states that the corpse has been deposited at a mortuary while investigation is ongoing.
The release, while stating that the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, has assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects, called on citizens to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, as security personnel have been deployed to strategic locations to ensure the safety and protection of life and property.
It further urges members of the public to report any suspicious activities or individuals with bullet wounds to the nearest police station, as their cooperation is crucial in maintaining law and order in the state.
Peoplesmind
