Gunmen Kill Police Inspector In Benin, Flee With Service Rifle

 

By Mike Osarogiagbon

Unidentified gunmen shot and killed a Police Inspector on Friday during a routine stop-and-search operation along the busy Ugbowo–Lagos Road, near Ekosodin Junction in Benin City, Edo State Capital, Nigeria.

The incident, which occurred around midday, reportedly led to a brief exchange of gunfire between the assailants and other police operatives on duty in the area.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers drove a black Lexus RX jeep from the University of Benin (UNIBEN) main gate axis and attempted to evade the routine security checks mounted by officers.

The source further narrated that after passing the first checkpoint, the occupants of the vehicle allegedly diverted to a nearby close upon sighting a second police post ahead.

According to the witness, the Inspector approached the vehicle when the occupants suddenly stopped, stepped out, and opened fire on him at close range. The attackers were also said to have taken the officer’s the scene.

As the suspects sped away, they reportedly exchanged gunfire with other officers stationed in the area before escaping.

Confirming the incident, the Edo State Police Command expressed deep regret over the loss of the officer, who was attached to the Ekiadolor Area Command. The Command stated that he died in the line of duty while carrying out a lawful stop-and-search operation.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Joel Yamu, the Command explained that the incident occurred at about 12:00 noon when an unregistered, black, heavily tinted Lexus SUV approached the checkpoint and refused to stop when flagged down by police operatives.

It was gathered that the suspicious behavior of the occupants prompted further attempts to subject the vehicle to standard security checks, during which one of the occupants allegedly opened fire on the officer at close range before speeding off.

The Command has since launched a full-scale investigation and intensified a manhunt for the perpetrators. All available intelligence and operational assets have been mobilized to track down the suspects and ensure that they are brought to justice.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report any sighting of a vehicle matching the description to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency hotlines, 08037646272 or 08077773721.

Residents were also urged to cooperate with security agencies as they intensify efforts to maintain peace and public safety across the state.

 

The Edo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property, assuring the public that it will not relent in its efforts until those responsible for the attack are apprehended.