Also read: Delta Govt condemns harassment at Ozoro festival
The incident occurred along the Delta State Polytechnic road near the Mega Chis area during a routine joint patrol involving police operatives and forestry personnel.
According to the official report, the security team spotted two men, later identified as Adama Augustine and an associate, who immediately fled upon sighting the officers.
During the ensuing chase, a forest officer, identified as Mr. Eze Ifeanyi, pursued Adama Augustine into an uncompleted building.
Tragically, both the officer and the suspect fell into an abandoned, open site well located within the structure and drowned before they could be successfully extracted.
This calamitous event resulted in both men being rushed to the Ogwashi-Uku General Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed them dead on arrival.
SP Edafe emphasized that no firearms were discharged during the encounter and reiterated that the deaths were purely accidental, directly contradicting allegations that the individuals were killed by police fire.
The Command expressed deep condolences to the families of Mr. Eze Ifeanyi and Adama Augustine, noting the profound loss felt by the Nigeria Forestry and Security Service.
Following the recovery of the bodies, which are currently awaiting autopsy, a formal investigation has been launched to document the circumstances surrounding the abandoned well.
Residents of the community have been urged to remain calm and disregard inflammatory reports designed to incite unrest.
Also read: Tinubu faces backlash as attacks surge after security pledge
The police leadership reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and public safety, appealing to the people of Delta State to continue supporting security agencies with accurate information while avoiding the spread of unverified claims.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
