On Monday, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, directed officers to locate and apprehend those responsible for funding and killing the policemen during the recent Islamic Movement of Nigeria (also known as the Shi’ite) procession.
The Police reported on Sunday that members of the Shi’ite group attacked their officers during the procession, leading to the death of two policemen and leaving three others hospitalized and unconscious.
Conversely, the Shi’ite group alleged that the police killed and injured several of their members during the procession in Wuse, Federal Capital Territory.
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”.
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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 pledged to thoroughly investigate the attack to ensure such incidents do not happen again.
He mentioned that the IG offers sympathies to the bereaved families and hopes for the swift recovery of the injured officers.
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 also mentioned that the police need the cooperation of the public to uphold 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.”
