Police inspector shot dead by DSS operatives during checkpoint clash in Anambra’s Ihiala area.
The incident has sparked concerns over inter-agency conflict as investigations into the shooting begin.
A tragic incident unfolded in Anambra State as a police inspector attached to the 29 Police Mobile Force in Awka was shot and killed during an altercation with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The fatal encounter occurred on Monday evening at a checkpoint along the Onitsha/Owerri Expressway, near Danaks Filling Station in Uli, Ihiala Local Government Area.
According to eyewitness reports, the police had mounted a routine stop-and-search operation when they flagged down a Toyota Sienna driving against traffic. Unbeknownst to them, the vehicle was occupied by DSS operatives. The situation reportedly escalated when the security officers refused to submit to the search.
Tensions quickly turned violent as the DSS operatives allegedly opened fire on the police team, hitting Inspector Bello Abdullah in the process. The injured officer was immediately rushed to the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Nnewi for emergency medical attention but was declared dead on arrival.
Following the shooting, the DSS officials allegedly fled the scene, abandoning the area before reinforcements could arrive.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but sources say an investigation has been launched to uncover the full details and hold those responsible accountable.
The development has sparked concern among residents and within the security community over rising tensions and lack of coordination between sister agencies in the state.
