Three policemen, two gunmen die in checkpoint attack in Ebonyi

From Chinedu Nwafor, Abakaliki

Three policemen and two gunmen on Wednesday died in a when gunmen attacked a police checkpoint in Oshiri, Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Also, one policeman sustained bullets wound and currently receiving medical attention.

Our Correspondent gathered that the gunmen who operated with a Lexus car on approaching the checkpoint, opened fired on the policemen who were on stop-and-search operation in front of Oshiri Police division Wednesday morning.

The Oshiri attack is coming barely two days after gunmen attacked policemen on stop-and-search operation at Union Bank roundabout on Monday and killed one policeman.

A statement signed by the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, further disclosed that incriminating items were recovered from the gunmen.

The statement reads: “Today being 24/05/2023 at about 0830hrs, Operatives of the Command on Stop and Search duty at Oshiri Division were attacked by armed Hoodlums.

“Sadly, three Police men lost their lives, one was injured and is currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

“Tactical teams were immediately drafted to the area to go after the Hoodlums.

“Consequently, two of the Hoodlums were neutralized and others escaped with bullet wounds.

“Recovered from them are:

1.one Lexus car ES350 Model.

2. one fabricated AK 47 rifle.

3. One AK 47 magazine with 7 rounds of ammunition.

4. One SMG rifle 

5. One SMG magazine with 8 rounds of ammunition.

6. A pack of hard drugs (SK).

7. Charms, juju drums and charka musical instrument for Shrine.

“The Commissioner Of Police, Ebonyi State Police Command, CP Faleye S. Olayele, psc appeals to members of the Public to report anyone with bullet wounds or suspicious character in order to apprehend those still at large.”