Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Police in Abia State said they had arrested and detained their personnel, Corporal Obagi Njok, for shooting and killing a young man at a checkpoint in Aba.
Police in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Maureen Chinaka, said full investigation into the matter had been ordered, describing the incident as unfortunate,
The PPRO in the statement issued Saturday, condoled with the family of the victim, assuring them that justice would be served to the culprit.
She said that appropriate disciplinary measures would soon be taken against the killer cop.
The statement read in part: “Preliminary Inquiries into the matter reveal that a Police Corporal Obagi Njok, attached to Abayi Police Division under Abia State Police Command shot at Mr Emmanuel Okocha along Aba-Owerri Road.
“The officer has been apprehended, and necessary disciplinary procedures have been initiated. Appropriate disciplinary actions and sanctions will be effected soonest, and he will face the full course of appropriate administrative and legal consequences. In this regard, representatives of the bereaved family and stakeholders will be carried along as the proceedings progress.
“The Abia State Police Command states without prevarication that the incident is unfortunate, and regrettable. The Command uses this medium to publicly commiserate with the family, friends, and well-wishers of the deceased.
“The Abia State Police Command remains steadfast in upholding professionalism and the rule of law. We unequivocally condemn any act of misconduct, unprofessionalism, and indiscipline among our officers.”
The victim, Mr Emmanuel Okocha was said to be driving home along Aba-Owerri Road, on Wednesday when the incident happened.
According to reports, he was flagged down at a checkpoint and asked to part with some money, an attempt he resisted.
Angered by the refusal of the victim to comply with the demand, the killer cop was said to have fired at him.
He later died in the hospital on Friday following severe gunshot wounds.