The Nigerian Ministry of Interior has clarified that it is believed that Nigerian Immigration Agency (NIS) officials were actually shot dead under the order of a Chinese company.
Babatunde Alao, special advisor to media and publicity for Home Minister Olubunmi Tunji-ojo, revealed this on Saturday, March 29, citing the findings of a further investigation into the incident.
Earlier, Tunji-Ojo accused a Chinese company of planning the shooting and vowed to take decisive action. However, Lieutenant General Cui Guangzhen of Nigeria China Chamber of Commerce denied the involvement of any Chinese company or citizens, instead attributed the shooting to a wandering bullet fired by Nigerian police while attempting to arrest a suspect who was accused of stealing a hardcore suspect from a Chinese company.
Alao confirmed the incident in this version in a statement, saying an active investigation is underway.
“After the shooting that allegedly shot the Nigerian Immigration Bureau in Nigeria State, further investigations have shown that the officer was hit by a wandering bullet and was neither shot in the order of the Chinese company,” the statement said.
“A comprehensive investigation has been conducted with other security agencies, with shootings on personnel. This is to reveal the details surrounding the shootings while ensuring that anyone who finds a crime will be booked.
“The Minister reiterated his strong commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity and professional integrity of all law enforcement officers.”
The ministry also assured that the government remains committed to supporting law-abiding local and foreign businesses.
