The Enugu State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the death of a young man, Smith Odinaka, who was reportedly shot and killed by individuals believed to be security agents.
The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of October 13, 2024, near the Mercedes-Benz Company premises along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.
The Commissioner of Police for Enugu State, Mr. Kanayo Uzuegbu, has ordered an in-depth investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
According to the command’s spokesperson, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Daniel Ndukwe, this incident has sparked concern among the public, and the police are committed to finding those responsible.
DSP Ndukwe, in a statement released on Wednesday, detailed the events leading to Odinaka’s death.
At approximately 1 a.m., Odinaka, who was driving a Mercedes-Benz vehicle in the company of two male friends, was hit by a gunshot believed to have been fired by security agents.
The bullet struck Odinaka on his left hip, causing severe injuries. Although he was quickly rushed to a hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival. His body was later moved to the mortuary for further examination, and an autopsy is expected to be conducted.
The statement added that, so far, no police officers or teams have been officially linked to the shooting.
Despite rumors circulating within the community, the investigation is ongoing, and the police have made it clear that any assumptions regarding the identity of the shooters should be treated with caution until the facts are fully established.
Commissioner Uzuegbu has tasked the Deputy Commissioner of Police, who oversees the State Criminal Investigation Department, with leading the investigation.
He assured the public that the police would make every effort to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. “All necessary efforts will be made to ensure that justice is served,” Uzuegbu said.
