Don Opata, a respected Nollywood Director of Photography, is reportedly fighting for his life after allegedly being shot by security operatives in Asaba, Delta State, early Friday morning.
The incident unfolded near the Mammy Market/Federal Technical College area, where members of the Operation Delta Hawk reportedly pursued a vehicle carrying Opata and his crew.
According to initial reports, the officers were acting on intelligence regarding a possible kidnapping threat. However, upon spotting the flashlights from the officers, Opata and his team reportedly mistook them for an attempted robbery and attempted to flee. The officers reportedly aimed to disable the vehicle’s tires to stop it but instead struck Opata in the abdomen.
Opata was immediately rushed to Asaba Specialist Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery and remains in critical condition.
A fellow crew member who narrowly escaped injury questioned the officers’ use of force, expressing deep concern over the handling of the incident and calling for a full investigation.
Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, has denied the incident. However, a source within Operation Delta Hawk noted that their intention was solely to halt the vehicle, not harm its occupants. Calls are mounting for a thorough investigation into the actions leading up to the shooting.
