Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, On monday directed operatives to track down and arrest those responsible for the attack on police officers during the recent Shi’ite procession.
On Sunday, the police reported that members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites, assaulted their personnel during the Arbaeen procession.
The violence resulted in the deaths of two police officers and left three others unconscious and hospitalized.
In response, the Shi’ite group alleged that police officers were responsible for killing and injuring several of their members during the same procession in Abuja’s Wuse area.
The investigation into the clash continues as both sides present conflicting accounts of the events.
In a statement issued by the Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, the IG condemned the killing of police officers while on duty, stating that “those who murdered these policemen have murdered peace”.
The statement was titled, “Police Condemn Shi’ite Attack in Abuja, Order Operatives to Hunt for Sponsors, Killers of Policemen”.
The statement read, “The Nigeria Police Force has vehemently condemned the unprovoked attack by members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, commonly known as the Shi’ite group, on police personnel in Abuja on August 25, 2024.
“In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, 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 unwavering commitment of the Force to arrest the remaining suspects and bring the killers to justice, emphasising his dedication to maintaining law and order and resisting all forms of anarchy and unrest throughout 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.”
Adejobi vowed to uncover the full extent of the attack to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
He stated that the IG extends condolences to the grieving families and wishes the injured officers a speedy recovery.
Adejobi added, “As investigations unfold, the Nigeria Police Force is determined to uncover the full extent of this attack and prevent future occurrences of 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 swift recovery to those currently undergoing treatment, hoping for their return to full health.”
He further stated that the police require the support of the citizens to maintain law and order.
Adejobi concluded, “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 crime across the country.”
