The Nigeria Police Force has strongly condemned an unprovoked attack on its officers by members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), commonly referred to as the Shi’ite group, in Abuja on Sunday.
According to a statement released on Monday by Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the incident occurred at Wuse Junction near a traffic light, where assailants targeted a police checkpoint. Armed with machetes, improvised explosive devices, and knives, the attackers launched a violent assault that resulted in the deaths of two police officers and left three others unconscious and hospitalized.
The attack also saw three police patrol vehicles set ablaze. Following the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun’s directive, police operatives swiftly responded, arresting 97 suspects and recovering several weapons used in the attack.
The IGP reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to apprehending all those involved and bringing them to justice, emphasizing the importance of maintaining law and order across the country. “The unprovoked killings of police officers in the line of duty are highly outrageous and unacceptable. Those who murdered these policemen have murdered peace,” the statement read.
The Nigeria Police Force vowed to uncover the full extent of the attack as investigations continue, pledging to prevent future violence against its officers. The IGP extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen officers and wished a speedy recovery to those injured, urging public support in the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in the face of extremist threats.
