Anambra CP summons area commander, DPOs over Onitsha shooting

On Thursday, Anambra State Commissioner of Police Nnanna Ama summoned the Area Commander and all Divisional Police Officers serving within Onitsha following a shooting incident at the Head Bridge of the River Niger. The meeting was aimed at enhancing operational supervision, accountability, and professionalism within the command, particularly in Onitsha, a major commercial centre.

Five persons are currently receiving treatment at different hospitals in Onitsha after the shooting that occurred early Wednesday. The incident took place after a trader was stopped by police officers while transporting drugs, leading to a confrontation and subsequent shooting. Eyewitnesses reported that the situation escalated quickly, causing chaos and disrupting traffic in the area.

One victim, Obiora Nweke, recounted how he was shot by a police officer in the leg while attempting to inquire about the commotion. Another victim, Friday Osisi, suffered a head injury after being hit with a stone while trying to calm the situation. The Police spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga, announced the summoning of the Area Commander and DPOs to the CP's office in Awka for a high-level supervisory meeting.

The CP directed DPOs to provide detailed briefings on security situations and policing activities, emphasizing the need to prevent unprofessional conduct and take appropriate disciplinary action against officers who abuse their powers. The CP reiterated his zero-tolerance policy towards such conduct, urging DPOs to strengthen internal supervision, maintain effective command and control, and strengthen compliance with professional standards.

The command has commenced a comprehensive review of the incident and operational procedures. The CP assured the people of Anambra State that the command remains committed to professional, accountable, and people-oriented policing.