Scores Of Abia Residents Injured As Policemen Invade Popular Entertainment Centre, Fire Gunshots
The disagreement quickly escalated, and the officers left—only to return with armed reinforcements.
At least 20 people were injured on Sunday night following a violent police invasion of De Latinos Concept, a popular entertainment centre in Umuahia, Abia State.
It was gathered that the unrest began around 8pm when a group of policemen attempted to enter the venue with suya meat purchased outside.
The establishment’s gatekeepers denied them entry, citing a policy against bringing in external food.
The disagreement quickly escalated, and the officers left—only to return with armed reinforcements.
A witness told Vanguard that the police fired gunshots and teargas into the crowd, triggering panic and a stampede.
“They launched an attack on everyone in sight, whether staff or guests. Over 20 people were injured, and some had to be admitted to the Federal Medical Centre due to the severity of their injuries.
“In addition to injuries, property worth millions of naira was reportedly damaged.”
The Abia State Police spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the incident, stating that Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, had visited the scene.
The spokesperson explained that officers involved, along with some staff members of De Latinos, are now under interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
“Investigations are ongoing, and updates will be provided to the public as we progress,” DSP Chinaka assured.
Meanwhile, the Abia State governor, Alex Otti has condemned the attack, vowed to bring all perpetrators to justice.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Otti reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to ensuring a secure environment for businesses to thrive.
“Every individual involved in this attack will face prosecution. This will serve as a deterrent to those who think they can act with impunity,” Otti said.
He further emphasised that his government would not tolerate any actions that instill fear in residents and business owners in Abia State.
