Nigerian Police Operatives Mistakenly Exchange Fire in Anambra, Two Injured
A misunderstanding among Nigerian police operatives in Nnewi, Anambra State, led to an unfortunate gun duel on Wednesday evening. Both groups mistook each other for members of the armed wing of Biafran agitators, resulting in injuries to two passersby and the destruction of a vehicle.
The clash occurred at Izuchukwu Junction on the Nnobi/Nnewi road in the hometown of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, whose burial preparations were ongoing. Tochukwu Ikenga, spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, confirmed the incident, stating that the gunfire was triggered by mistaken identity.
“The command is aware of the shooting incident… security operatives mistook police personnel for hostile forces and opened fire,” Ikenga explained. He also clarified that the incident was unrelated to any attempt to disrupt Senator Ubah’s burial, emphasizing that the attack did not involve non-state actors.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the operatives were pursuing a suspect when the gunfire erupted. During the exchange, bullets struck the fuel tank of a Toyota Venza, causing the vehicle to catch fire.
Two innocent passersby sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at a hospital. The police have assured the public that the situation is under control and that investigations are ongoing to prevent such incidents in the future.
