The Nasarawa State Police Command has successfully repelled a violent ambush by armed men targeting its officers near the Kadarko-Makurdi Road, close to the Benue border. The foiled attack, which occurred late Tuesday night at approximately 10:55 PM, involved a group of gunmen who opened fire on police personnel carrying out routine duties in the area.
In a statement released on Friday, the command’s spokesperson, SP Ramhan Nansel, confirmed the incident and praised the swift and courageous response of the officers, which prevented what could have been a deadly assault. He explained that the attackers emerged from a nearby forest and launched a sudden assault, but the police officers returned fire and forced the gunmen to retreat, likely with injuries from the gunfight.
One officer, Inspector Sunday Apochie, sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation. A rapid response team from the nearby police station quickly arrived at the scene, evacuated the injured officer, and recovered his rifle, which had fallen during the exchange.
Read also:
- Police kill 3 kidnap suspects in Benue, rescue 2 victims in Nasarawa
- 21-year-old woman arrested in Nasarawa for trafficking 481 rounds of ammunition to criminal gangs
- Abuja Kidnap Shocker: Navy hands over armed gang behind Naval Officer’s abduction to Police
Tragically, a civilian in the vicinity was struck by a stray bullet and lost his life during the chaos. The injured officer was initially treated at a medical facility in Kadarko before being transferred to a specialist hospital in Lafia, where he is currently receiving care and showing signs of recovery.
Commissioner of Police Shetima Jauro-Mohammed has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident. He has also launched a manhunt to track down the fleeing attackers. The commissioner personally visited the injured officer in the hospital and extended his condolences to the family of the deceased civilian, assuring them that justice will be pursued.
The Nasarawa Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order across the state and vowed to enhance patrols, intelligence gathering, and security measures to prevent future attacks. The public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could threaten peace and safety within the region.
