Several police officers are now in detention after a routine stop-and-search in Ebonyi State ended with a motorcyclist losing his right eye.
The incident occurred Monday morning in Ngbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, when Arinze Eze was riding from Ishieke to Ohaukwu. According to Premium Times, officers flagged him down for a search. Trouble began when they demanded he hand over his small bag. Eze refused, insisting they could search him with the bag still on his neck.
One officer, identified only as Kingsley, allegedly attacked him first. Others joined in. During the fight, an officer reportedly hit Eze with the butt of his rifle. The blow was so severe it forced his eyeball out of its socket.
The Ebonyi State Police Command confirmed Tuesday that the officers involved have been “officially identified and detained.” Police spokesperson Joshua Ukandu said Commissioner of Police Hope Okafor ordered them transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for investigation.
“The State CID has commenced a thorough and transparent investigation,” Ukandu stated. He added that the command has contacted Eze, who is receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Abakaliki.
The police command said it maintains “zero tolerance for brutality, indiscipline or any misconduct that brings the Force into disrepute.” Any officer found guilty will face strict disciplinary action, Ukandu promised.
Human rights group HURIDE condemned the attack and called for justice. Chairman Sampson Nweke welcomed the quick arrests but urged a full, unbiased probe. “All those found culpable must be held accountable in accordance with the law,” he said.
