Gunmen Open Fire on Police Patrol, Kill Two Inspectors
Two inspectors from the Nigeria Police Force’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) were fatally ambushed in Jos, Plateau State. The attack occurred around 7:30 pm along Little Rayfield Road, a location that has recently seen a rise in criminal activities.
The fallen officers, Inspector Fatoye Femi and Inspector Dafur Dashit, were conducting a routine patrol when they came under heavy gunfire from assailants suspected to be armed robbers or kidnappers. Despite their efforts to repel the attack, both officers sustained fatal injuries. During the confrontation, law enforcement managed to apprehend one of the attackers, identified as Auwal Ali from Angwang Doki Bukuru.
In response to the incident, the Superintendent of Police for ‘B’ Division, along with his team, was promptly deployed to the scene to restore order and prevent further escalation. The swift action underscores the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to address the increasing threats posed by criminal elements in the region.
This attack is part of a disturbing trend of violent assaults on law enforcement officers across Nigeria. In August 2024, two officers were killed in Abuja following an unprovoked attack by members of the banned Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN). Similarly, in December 2024, two police operatives lost their lives in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State during an ambush by gunmen. These incidents highlight the escalating security challenges faced by law enforcement agencies nationwide.
The Inspector-General of Police has condemned the recent attack in Jos, describing it as a cowardly act against those dedicated to protecting the community. He has directed an immediate and thorough investigation to apprehend all individuals involved in the ambush. The police force is also reviewing its operational strategies to enhance the safety of its personnel and the public.
Community leaders in Jos have expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased officers and have called for increased collaboration between the public and security agencies. They emphasize that timely information sharing is crucial in preventing such attacks and ensuring the safety of residents.
As investigations continue, the Nigeria Police Force urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest security outpost. The force reiterates its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, despite the daunting challenges posed by criminal elements.
The recent spate of attacks on law enforcement underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture. Stakeholders advocate for enhanced training, better equipment for police personnel, and strengthened community policing initiatives to effectively combat the rising tide of insecurity.
In honoring the memory of Inspectors Femi and Dashit, the Nigeria Police Force has pledged to continue its relentless pursuit of justice and to ensure that those responsible for such heinous acts are brought to book. The sacrifices of these officers serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those on the front lines of maintaining peace and order in the nation.