Police Inspector Habila Mangai Killed by Truck Driver During Lawful Traffic Duty in Imo State

Inspector General Olatunji Disu mandates an investigation into the death of Habila Mangai, an officer struck by a truck on duty in Imo State. Suspect in custody.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 5:04 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Politics Nigeria

Fatal Collision During Regulatory Enforcement

The Nigeria Police Force is mourning the loss of a veteran officer following a violent encounter on a major transit route in the southeast. Inspector Habila Mangai, a dedicated operative attached to the Isiala Mbano Division, was killed in the line of duty while conducting a sanctioned stop and search operation. According to Force Public Relations Officer DCP Anthony Placid, the incident involved a heavy duty Mack truck that struck the officer along the busy Owerri-Okigwe Road. Despite immediate efforts to provide emergency medical intervention, the impact proved fatal, marking a somber day for the Imo State Police Command.

Apprehension of Suspect and Vehicle Seizure

Immediate tactical measures were taken following the collision to ensure legal accountability. The driver of the vehicle, identified as Chisom Ajah, was taken into police custody alongside the involved truck shortly after the event. According to official statements, the suspect and the vehicle have been transferred to the State Motor Traffic Department in Owerri. This specialized unit is tasked with conducting a granular reconstruction of the incident to determine if the fatality was the result of mechanical failure, driver negligence, or deliberate intent.

Emergency Medical Procedures and Mortuary Transition

Following the impact, the late Inspector Mangai was evacuated by his colleagues to the Federal Medical Centre in Owerri. Medical personnel on site officially confirmed his passing upon arrival. The Force has since moved his remains to the hospital mortuary pending further administrative and ceremonial arrangements. This sudden loss has sent shockwaves through the Isiala Mbano Division, where Mangai was known for his commitment to maintaining order and safety on the state’s highways.