A tragic incident occurred on Sunday, September 3, 2023, when a police officer lost his life in a fierce gun battle with kidnappers along the Enugu-Ugwuogo-Opi-Nsukka road. The officer, identified as Inspector Nege Tavershima, was from Mbayion, Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State and was attached to the Enugu State Government House.
According to a statement by the Enugu State Police Command, Inspector Tavershima was on escort duty with some VIPs when they encountered the kidnappers who had blocked the road and were shooting sporadically at motorists. The officer joined other police operatives, neighbourhood watch group members and forest guards to engage the hoodlums and foil their attempt to abduct some road users.
In the process, two of the kidnappers were killed on the spot, while many others fled into the forest with bullet wounds. The police also recovered one AK-47 rifle, two magazines, 98 rounds of live ammunition, one cutlass, two mobile phones and other incriminating exhibits from the scene.
However, Inspector Tavershima sustained a gunshot wound in the exchange of fire and was rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, he was confirmed dead by doctors in the morning of Monday, September 4, 2023. His body has been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has expressed his deep sorrow over the death of the gallant officer, whom he described as courageous even in death. He also commended the personnel and other security agents involved in the operation for their bravery and professionalism.
The CP further reiterated his commitment to ruthlessly deal with unrepentant criminals terrorizing the state and urged the public to cooperate with the police by providing useful information that could lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspects.
Meanwhile, friends and family members of Inspector Tavershima have taken to social media to mourn his demise and pay tribute to his heroism. They described him as a dedicated and loyal officer who sacrificed his life for the safety of others. They also prayed for God to grant him eternal rest and comfort his loved ones.
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