Title: A Winnipeg tragedy: Nigerian student armed with two knives killed by police in University Crescent apartment.
Introduction :
In a tragic encounter between the police and a 19-year-old Nigerian student, Afolabi Stephen Opaso, the situation quickly escalated and resulted in the young man’s death. Winnipeg police responded to a call about an altercation at an apartment on University Crescent and were confronted by Opaso, who was armed with two knives. Unfortunately, during the incident, an officer fired his firearm, fatally wounding the student despite attempts to save him at the hospital.
The context of the incident:
Authorities say Opaso was a student at the University of Manitoba. He did not appear to have a criminal record and his previous encounter with police was last year, when he was helped by offering him a ride. However, the exact details of the incident that led to the confrontation between Opaso and police remain unclear, and the victim’s family is demanding answers.
The current investigation:
The Manitoba Independent Investigation Unit (IIU) was tasked with investigating this incident. She is responsible for determining whether the officer’s use of force was justified and whether alternative actions could have been taken to prevent the tragedy. Investigators will be responsible for interviewing witnesses and analyzing evidence in order to reconstruct the events of this tragic night.
Questions raised by the family:
Opaso’s family is demanding answers regarding the circumstances surrounding their loved one’s death. Their lawyer, Jean-René Dominique Kwilu, wonders if the use of deadly force was necessary to disarm the young man. This issue raises concerns about police use of force and how it is regulated and monitored.
Conclusion :
This tragedy has shaken the Winnipeg community and raises many questions about police protocols and how crisis situations are handled. As the investigation continues, it is essential that the events of that night are shed light on and action taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The victims’ families deserve answers and the community needs police who act with respect for the lives and safety of all.