This was contained in a press statement issued and made available to journalists, by the Spokesman of the Command, DSP Joshua UKandu on Thursday at Abakaliki.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on January 27, 2026, at about 10:30 p.m. near Hariz Filling Station, close to the Spera-in-Deo Flyover in the Ebonyi State capital.
Preliminary reports indicated that police operatives attached to the Central Police Station (CPS), Abakaliki, were on routine patrol when they responded to a distress call in the area.
During the operation, one of the officers reportedly discharged his firearm unprofessionally, firing into the air.
The bullet, however, struck a motorcycle rider identified as Nwanchor Uwaezuruike.
The victim was immediately rushed to a hospital for medical attention but was later confirmed dead.
Following the incident, the police officers involved were taken into custody.
The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, CP Uche Adaku Anya, subsequently directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to conduct a thorough, impartial and professional investigation into the shooting.
The Commissioner of Police also expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, assuring them and the general public that justice would be served at the conclusion of the investigation.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism, the Ebonyi State Police Command said it would keep the public informed as investigations progress and appropriate actions are taken based on the findings.
