Policeman shoots driver dead, injures three in Rivers

Etim Ekpimah

A motorist was shot dead and three people were injured after a policeman opened fire at a checkpoint around the Agip-Ada George Junction in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday evening.

The victim, identified as Anthony, was reportedly driving a private car when police officers flagged him down at about 5pm. He allegedly failed to stop, prompting the officers to pursue the vehicle.

According to an eyewitness, one of the officers fired three shots at the car, with a bullet striking Anthony in the back and piercing his chest. He reportedly lost control of the vehicle and crashed into three people, who sustained injuries.

Residents and passers-by rushed to the scene and pulled the critically injured driver from the vehicle before taking him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The officer allegedly fired several shots into the air while attempting to leave the scene but was confronted by youths, who reportedly disarmed and assaulted him before other policemen arrived and took him away.

The incident caused panic around the junction, with residents and business owners gathering at the scene.

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed knowledge of the incident. Its spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agaba, said the command was still obtaining details from the Divisional Police Officer before issuing an official statement.