A police officer identified as Habila Alex has tragically lost his life following an accident at a checkpoint in Umunkwo Village, along the busy Okigwe–Owerri Road in Imo State.
The incident, which occurred on Monday morning, has been confirmed by eyewitness accounts, though official police authorities are yet to issue a formal statement as of press time.
According to multiple witnesses at the scene, the fatal incident happened at about 9:45 a.m. while the officer was on routine checkpoint duty.
Officer Alex was said to have attempted to stop an approaching Mack truck, but the driver allegedly refused to comply and instead accelerated past the checkpoint, prompting the officer to take further action.
In an apparent bid to enforce compliance, the officer reportedly pursued the moving vehicle and attempted to climb onto its cabin.
Eyewitnesses stated that he reached for the truck’s side mirror, possibly intending to gain leverage or compel the driver to halt.
However, in a tragic turn of events, the side mirror reportedly broke off under pressure as he held onto it.
The sudden detachment caused the officer to lose his balance and fall violently onto the hard surface of the expressway.
Witnesses said he landed head-first, sustaining severe injuries from the impact. He was reported to have died instantly at the scene before any medical assistance could be rendered.
The incident has sparked concern among road users and residents in the area, particularly regarding safety practices at checkpoints along major highways.
While the circumstances surrounding the truck driver’s actions remain unclear, authorities are expected to investigate the incident to determine liability and prevent future occurrences.