- Odibo Victory
The Rivers State Police Command says it has dismissed four personnel over the fatal shooting of a student, Anthony Obodo, in Port Harcourt.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, on Wednesday while briefing journalists on recent security developments in the state.
According to reports, the incident occurred on Aug. 27 after an altercation between the late Obodo and a police officer degenerated into a scuffle.
Adepoju said that the officer who shot Obodo, and others on duty with him had been tried through orderly room proceedings and found culpable in Obodo’s death.
He said that the dismissed personnel would subsequently be charged to court to face appropriate criminal charges in accordance with the law.
He further explained that the incident occurred when a patrol team from Agip Police Division sighted a black, fully tinted Lexus vehicle.
“The team attempted to stop the vehicle, but it allegedly sped off, prompting the patrol team to chase the vehicle,” he said.
Adepoju further said that during the chase, one of the officers attached to the team opened fire at the vehicle.
“The bullet allegedly struck the driver identified as Obodo, who sustained gunshot injury,” he said.
The commissioner said that the victim was rushed to the Hospital where he was treated but later pronounced dead by a doctor.
He identified the officers involved as ASP Fabian Kpeanabari, Insp Solomon Nworgu, CPL Alfred Louise and PC Michael Ejokwu.
He said that efforts were being made to locate Insp Solomon Nworgu, who reportedly absconded after the incident.
Adepoju said that the action of the police demonstrated its commitment not shield personnel who abused their powers or acted contrary of the law.
The police boss sympathized with Obodo’s family, and assured them that justice would be served.