Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered security operatives to go after the sponsors and killers of two police officers during Sunday’s clash between police and Shi’ites.
Egbetokun condemned what he described as an unprovoked attack by members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, IMN, commonly known as the Shi’ite group, on police personnel.
The incident occurred at Wuse Junction by the traffic light, where assailants targeted a police checkpoint and descended heavily on policemen on duty.
Egbtokun confirmed the arrest of 97 suspects and the recovery of several weapons used in the attack.
The attackers, who were armed with machetes, improvised explosive devices and knives, embarked on several violent attacks which left two police officers dead with three unconscious and currently receiving treatment in hospital. Additionally, three police patrol vehicles were set ablaze during the attack.
A statement issued yesterday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said: “In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, the progressive efforts of police operatives led to the arrest of 97 suspects and the recovery of several weapons used in the attack.
“The IGP has reaffirmed the unalloyed zeal of the Force to arrest others and bring the killers to justice, emphasizing his commitment to maintain law and order, and resist all sorts of anarchy and unrest in any part of the country.
“The unprovoked killing of police officers in the line of duty is highly outrageous and unacceptable, as those who murdered these policemen have murdered peace.
“As investigations unfold, the Nigeria Police Force is determined to uncover the full extent of this attack and prevent future occurrences of such violence against police officers. The IGP offers heartfelt sympathies to the grieving families of the fallen police officers, mourning their loss alongside them, and also wishes a speedy recovery to those currently undergoing treatment, hoping for their swift return to full health.
“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.”
