The Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Area, Augustine Ogedegbe, has promised justice for a pregnant woman killed by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a security operative in Abraka, Delta State.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, reportedly involved personnel of Operation Delta Sweep who were in pursuit of suspected internet fraudsters.
Eyewitnesses said the victim was struck during the chase, sparking outrage and grief in the community.
A video that went viral on social media showed the woman, dressed in a blood-stained white shirt, being rushed into a vehicle by a uniformed officer and bystanders in a desperate effort to save her. She was later confirmed dead before arrival at the hospital.
In a statement issued late Saturday, Ogedegbe described the woman’s death as tragic and condemned the circumstances that led to it.
ZzzHe assured residents that the matter would not be swept under the carpet.
“While we acknowledge the challenging work our security personnel face in maintaining law and order, it is deeply concerning to see incidents like this, which diverge from their intended duties of combating crime and ensuring public safety. We will pursue this issue with the seriousness it deserves and ensure that justice is served, while taking steps to prevent a recurrence,” the council boss said.
Ogedegbe appealed for calm, urging residents not to take the law into their own hands but to allow due process to run its course.
He also extended condolences to the victim’s family, describing the tragedy as a painful loss to the community.