A motorist identified simply as Anthony was reportedly shot dead by a police officer at the Agip-Ada George Junction in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, while three other persons sustained injuries after the victim’s vehicle crashed.
The incident occurred at about 5pm on Thursday after Anthony was allegedly flagged down by police officers at the junction but failed to stop.
Witnesses said the officers reportedly chased the vehicle, after which one of the policemen fired several shots.
One of the bullets allegedly struck Anthony from behind, causing him to lose control of the vehicle. The car reportedly veered off the road and rammed into three persons, leaving them seriously injured.
Residents and passers-by were said to have rushed to the scene and pulled the driver from the vehicle. Anthony, who was reportedly unconscious and bleeding heavily, was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was later confirmed dead.
An eyewitness said the shooting caused panic in the area, with people running for safety.
The police officer allegedly attempted to escape after the incident and fired shots into the air. However, some youths reportedly confronted him, seized his gun and assaulted him before other police officers arrived and rescued him.
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A video circulating online showed residents and business owners gathered at the scene following the shooting.
The Rivers State Police Command said it was aware of the incident and was gathering details.
Police spokesperson, Blessing Agaba, said an official statement would be issued after the command received a full report from the relevant police division.
The incident has sparked renewed concern over the use of firearms by security operatives at checkpoints and during attempts to stop motorists.
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