The Abia State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement by Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Maureen Chioma Chinaka.
Part of the statement read: “Today, July 21, 2024, at about 1128hrs, police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad Aba, Abia State Command, while on patrol along Ngwa Road by Mosque junction, Aba, were attacked by armed men in an ash-coloured Sienna vehicle.
“The armed men opened fire on the police personnel, and the operatives repelled the attack, preventing what could have been a deadlier outcome.
“However, during the exchange of gunfire, two of the assailants were neutralised, while others escaped with various degrees of bullet injuries.
“Unfortunately, a police officer, Inspector Shehu Oyibo, three civilians who were later identified as Chika Godliveth ‘M’, Onyenaturuchi Jonah ‘M’ 32 years old, from Item, in Bende L.G.A of Abia State, and Eniobong Godsgift Clement ‘F’, 18 years old, from Akwa Ibom State were killed by bullets from the assailants.”
ASP Chinaka said the bodies of the deceased have been moved to the mortuary, and an investigation is underway to track down and apprehend the fleeing assailants.
The police urged the public to continue their activities without fear, assuring them that officers have been deployed to key locations to safeguard lives and property.
Residents were also encouraged to report any suspicious activity or individuals with bullet injuries to the nearest police station to aid in the ongoing investigation.
