A labourer was killed, and three others were injured during a clash between a soldier and police officers in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State.
Reports indicate that the incident occurred on Wednesday morning in Ugwuachara village, within the Ebonyi Local Government Area.
The police were reportedly conducting a stop-and-search operation when they attempted to search a soldier on a motorcycle.
During the search, a scuffle ensued, and the soldier allegedly attempted to disarm one of the officers. In the process, a firearm discharged, and a stray bullet struck a bystander.
The victim, identified as a labourer, succumbed to his injuries, while three others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment in hospital.
The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, Adaku Uche-Anya, confirmed the incident, clarifying that the bystander was not deliberately targeted.
She stated, “The soldier was trying to disarm one of the policemen when the bullet discharged and hit a bystander. It was not a case of the policemen opening fire on bystanders.
“One person died, and three others are injured but are responding to treatment in hospital.
“We have identified the soldier, who is stationed in Kaduna. Both the soldier and the policemen involved are in our custody.”
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