By Ayo Kehinde
The Anambra State Government has condemned the killing yesterday of a commercial motorcyclist in Igbo Ukwu, Aguata Local Government Area, by a policeman.
Some police officers were reported to be enforcing the government’s order banning motorcycles from operating from 5am to 9pm in a move to reduce violent crime in the state when an argument ensued between them and the motorcyclist, resulting in the shooting to death of the motorcyclist.
” The State Government condemns in strong terms the action of the policemen, whether it was intentional or not. There is no justification for the law enforcement officer to cork his gun in the first place. The government is satisfied that the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr John Abang, on getting the report criticised the unprofessional behaviour of the officer and ordered his immediate arrest and detention.” said Mr C Don Adinuba, Commisssioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, in a statement
He said the Anambra State Government will prosecute the officer once the ongoing investigation into the incident is completed. The prosecution will serve as a deterrent to law enforcement agents who misuse firearms.
He expressed regret that some people in and around decided to take the law into their hands by burning the police station in the neighbourhood and freeing some people detained in connection with serious offences.
“Our state is famous for law and order,” he said
According to him, ” On hearing the news of the incident in Igbo Ukwu, Governor Willie Obiano directed the Chairman of the Transition Committee of the Aguata Local Government Area to immediately visit the family of the dead commercial cyclist and express the government’s condolences. Governor Obiano has also directed the Transition Committee Chairman to work out the burial expenses of the motorcyclist and send him the bill as soon as possible, so that he will write off the cost.”
