The Enugu State Police Command has arrested and detained one of its operatives for allegedly shooting and killing a traditional musician on Friday.

In a statement on Saturday, the Public Relations Officer of the command, Daniel Ndukwe, said the incident occurred around 8:10 p.m., at the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad’s Headquarters.

Mr Ndukwe said, “A male police inspector serving in the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Enugu State Police Command has been arrested and detained over the alleged murder of a male traditional Ogene musician, Okezie Chikezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah. The musician was reportedly leaving the squad’s headquarters after a friendly visit when, for reasons yet to be ascertained, the police officer fired his rifle, hitting the victim. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor. His body has been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.”

According to the command’s spokesperson, the Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, has ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the state CID to investigate and facilitate appropriate disciplinary action against the errant officer.

Describing the incident as unacceptable, the police commissioner, while empathising with the victim’s family, friends, and associates, assured that everyone found culpable would be sanctioned in line with the law to serve as a deterrent.

He therefore urged those connected with the late musician to remain calm and cooperate with the police to ensure that justice was served.