Policemen, Air Force personnel clash at Delta checkpoint over drug suspect
A confrontation recently erupted at a checkpoint in Jeddo, Delta State, between personnel of the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Air Force, creating a chaotic scene that drew widespread attention.
Clarifying the cause of the altercation in a post on X.com on Thursday, the state police spokesperson, SP Edafe Bright, said the incident occurred when policemen were transporting a suspect found in possession of substances suspected to be codeine, Indian hemp, and Canadian loud.
However, upon reaching the checkpoint, Air Force personnel, who allegedly knew the suspect, intercepted the police officers and demanded the suspect’s release.
Edafe wrote: “The policemen attached to QRS were on their way with a suspect found in possession of substances suspected to be codeine, Indian hemp, and Canadian loud.
“But Air Force personnel, who happened to know the suspect, intercepted them and insisted that the policemen release him before proceeding. When the officers refused, the Air Force personnel attacked them unprovoked.”
Edafe described the clash as unfortunate and assured the public that the matter was being addressed.
He added: “This issue is being handled. We recognise the cordial relationship we have with the Nigerian Air Force in Delta State. The Delta State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, and the Air Force authorities are looking into the incident and putting measures in place to ensure that such a shameful event does not happen again.”
