Two policemen on a stop-and-search duty have lost their lives to gunmen after being attacked at Diobu axis of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
It was gathered that the police operatives were gunned down at Okija Street while trying to block the hoodlums from making a U-turn at the checkpoint, Nation reports.
Victor Ohaji, a Commander of a local vigilante group in the area, Phalga Security Watch, said the deceased policemen, who were attached to the Mile One Police Division, were gunned down on Okija Street.
According to him, the hoodlums drove their vehicle to the checkpoint, attempted to make a U-turn after sighting the policemen but opened fire on two operatives, who tried to block them.
He also noted that the vigilant group requires assistance in the yuletide to fight crimes in the area.
Confirming the attack, the State Police Spokesperson, Nnamdi Omoni, said the hoodlums snatched the AK47 rifle of one of the victims.
He added that a Toyota Corolla car used by the gunmen during the operation was abandoned, as he noted that investigations had been launched.
“I can confirm the attack on our men posted to Okija street on stop and Search by unknown gunmen last night. Two Police officers were killed.
“Investigation has been ordered by the CP. One Toyota COROLLA with Reg.no Rivers ABU 380 AW used by the attackers was abandoned. One AK47 rifle belonging to one of the Officers carted away,” Omoni said.
