By Milcah Tanimu

The Kogi State Police Command has acknowledged a grave error in the killing of Barrister Elias Ugwu, admitting that the Nsukka-based lawyer was mistakenly identified as a member of an armed robbery gang.

In a statement released by its Public Relations Officer, SP. Williams Anya, the police revealed that Barrister Ugwu was tragically killed in error during an operation to apprehend armed robbers who had raided banks and attacked police stations in Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.

According to the police report, a tactical team responding to the armed robbery deployed to the area encountered a vehicle matching the description provided by villagers. Despite attempts to stop the vehicle, it attempted to flee, leading to shots being fired at its tires, resulting in a halt.

Upon investigation, it was discovered that the vehicle carried three individuals, including Barrister Elias Ugwu, who sustained injuries during the encounter and later succumbed to them at Maria Goretti Hospital in Anyigba.

The police clarified that the occupants of the vehicle claimed to be in the area to negotiate the ransom for a kidnapping victim and were unaware of the bank robbery incident. However, due to their failure to report their presence or mission to the police, they were suspected of involvement in the criminal activities.

The Commissioner of Police, while extending condolences to the deceased’s family, emphasized that the unfortunate incident could have been avoided if the occupants of the vehicle had complied with police instructions.

The admission of mistaken identity comes amid widespread mourning over Barrister Ugwu’s shocking death, prompting calls for accountability and justice in the handling of law enforcement operations.