From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has condemned the attack and killing on policemen by members of the the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, popularly known as the Shi’ite group.
The IGP, has also vowed to arrest those involved in the barbaric act and bring them to justice, just as he noted that the police have emplaced measures to seek justice for the slain cops.
Egbetokun said the police have arrested 97 suspects and recovered several arms used in the attack, adding that,”the Nigeria Police Force is determined to uncover the full extent of the attack and prevent future occurrences”.
The IGP, in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, declared the commitment of the police to maintaining law and order and resisting all sorts of anarchy and unrest in any part of the country.
While consoling the grieving families of the fallen police officers, he wished a speedy recovery to those victims currently undergoing treatment.
He solicited the support and understanding of Nigerians in the police quest to maintain law and order even in the face of extremists threats and other forms of violent crimes across the country.
The statement reads, “The Nigeria Police Force has condemned, vehemently, an unprovoked attack by members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), commonly known as the Shi’ite group, on police personnel in Abuja on August 25, 2024.
“The incident occurred at Wuse Junction by the traffic light, where assailants targeted a police checkpoint and descended heavily on policemen on duty. The attackers, who were armed with machetes, improvised explosive devices, and knives, embarked on several violent attacks which left two police officers dead and three of them injured and are currently receiving treatment in the hospital. Also, three police patrol vehicles were set ablaze during the attack.
“In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the progressive efforts of police operatives have led to the arrest of 97 suspects and the recovery of several weapons used in the attack.
“The IGP has also reaffirmed the unalloyed zeal of the Force to arrest other involved persons and bring the killers to justice, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining law and order and resisting all sorts of anarchy and unrest in any part of the country. The unprovoked killings of police officers in the line of duty are highly outrageous and unacceptable as those who murdered these policemen have murdered peace.
“As investigations unfold, the police are determined to uncover the full extent of this attack and prevent future occurrences of such violence against police officers. The IGP offers heartfelt sympathy to the grieving families of the fallen police officers and also wished those undergoing treatment swift return to full health.
“The NPF, therefore, seeks the support and understanding of the general public in its quest to maintain law and order even in the face of extremist threats and other forms of violent crimes across the country”.