The situation at Benin/Asaba Road, by Igueomo Junction, turned chaotic when a stray bullet, allegedly fired by a police gun, tragically claimed the life of a Hausa resident. The victim, whose identity remains unknown, was fatally struck by the stray bullet on the evening of February 28 while in front of the house of a POS operator, where he had gone to wire ₦4000 to his wife in his home village.
According to reports from a source in the area, the police were present to apprehend some hoodlums, and during their pursuit, they discharged their firearms at the fleeing individuals. Tragically, one of these bullets struck the victim, resulting in his immediate death.
The chaotic incident sparked outrage among the predominantly Hausa community in the area, leading to protests and demonstrations. The angry youths, armed with sticks and machetes, blocked the road, erected barricades, and set bonfires, effectively disrupting traffic flow and leaving commuters stranded. Additionally, reports indicate that some police vehicles passing through the area were vandalized by the irate protesters.
The blockade of the highway resulted in significant inconvenience for commuters, with passengers forced to disembark from buses arriving from both the Asaba and Benin city directions. The tense situation underscores the need for swift and effective measures to address the underlying security concerns and prevent further loss of life in the community.
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