97 held for killing of two policemen in Abuja attack

Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has ordered manhunt for the sponsors and killers of two policemen during Sunday’s clash between police and members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria(IMN) otherwise known as Shi’ites.

Egbetokun condemned what he described as an unprovoked attack by members of the Shi’ite group, on police personnel.

But the IMN denied involvement, saying its members had a mourning procession on Saturday which went peacefully.

The group condemned the arrest of its members over the incident.

The incident occurred at Wuse Junction by the traffic light, where assailants targeted a checkpoint and descended on policemen on duty.

The attackers, who were armed with machetes, improvised explosive devices, and knives, embarked on several violent attacks which led to the death of two policemen. Four others, including a female were critically injured.

Three police patrol vehicles were set ablaze.

Egbetokun confirmed the arrest of 97 suspects and the recovery of several weapons used in the attack.

The IG’s figure raised the number of suspects arrested from 62 given by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Commissioner Benneth Igweh on Sunday.

A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, yesterday said: “In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode 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 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.”

The injured officers are responding to treatment, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said while giving an update on their condition.

She added that the FCT Commissioner of Police, (CP), Benneth Igweh will today (Tuesday) visit the families of the dead officers.

Adeh said: “ As we speak the four injured officers including a female are currently receiving treatment and they are responding to treatment.

“The FCT Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh will on Tuesday visit family members of the dead officers to commensurate with them and assure them of Police support.