Three injured as policeman kills driver at checkpoint in Rivers

Tragedy struck at the Agip-Ada George junction in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday evening when a police officer fatally shot a motorist identified as Anthony. The incident occurred after the policeman, who was on duty with colleagues, allegedly fired three shots when Anthony, driving a private car, failed to stop at the junction.

One of the bullets struck the driver in the back, causing him to lose control of his vehicle. The car veered off the road and collided with three pedestrians, who sustained serious injuries. The immediate aftermath saw confusion and panic as passers-by and residents rushed to the vehicle to assist the unconscious and bleeding driver. An eyewitness, who requested anonymity, stated that the incident happened around 5 p.m. and that the police officers pursued the vehicle before the shooting began.

Following the shooting, the eyewitness reported that the policeman fired more shots into the air in an attempt to escape. However, some youths in the area confronted him, disarmed him, and began to assault him. Other police officers arrived at the scene and rescued the apprehended officer. A video circulating online showed residents and business owners gathered at the scene after the operative's attempted escape.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the state Police Command, Blessing Agaba, confirmed awareness of the incident. As an Assistant Superintendent of Police, she stated that she was gathering details from the Divisional Police Officer and would release an official statement soon.