Police confirm killing of Neighbourhood Watch operative in Ebonyi

Police in Ebonyi State have confirmed the killing of Chidiebere Okpara, a member of the state's Neighbourhood Watch, formerly known as Ebubeagu. Suspected gunmen attacked Okpara in Abakaliki on Thursday evening.

SP Joshua Ukandu, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Ebonyi State, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday. He stated that the victim was attacked around 8:30 p.m. in the Ugwuchara area of Abakaliki Local Government Area.

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Investigation has begun into the matter, and we are determined to fish out the perpetrators of the crime. We are committed to safeguarding the lives and property of the people.

The police command has initiated an investigation into the killing and is committed to identifying and apprehending those responsible. "Investigation has begun into the matter, and we are determined to fish out the perpetrators of the crime. We are committed to safeguarding the lives and property of the people," Ukandu said.

An eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, reported that Okpara was ambushed while on duty. The source claimed the assailants repeatedly shot at the operative. When the gunshots were not immediately fatal, they allegedly overpowered him and inflicted machete wounds before fleeing the scene. The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and the eyewitness urged security agencies to intensify efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

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We do not know the motive behind the attack. We are calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.