The Nigeria Police Force said Monday it has arrested 97 persons in connection with the unprovoked attack by members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), on police personnel Sunday in Abuja.
The group also known as Shi’ite on armed with machetes, improvised explosive devices, and knives, swooped on officers manning a police checkpoint near Wuse junction, leaving two officers dead and several others injured. Three police patrol vehicles were also set ablaze during the attack,
Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said in a statement on Monday, that the Inspector General of Police Mr. Kayode Egbetokun has condemned the attack and has also urged the force to arrest other members of the group still at large.
“In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD., NPM., fspsp., the progressive efforts of police operatives have led to the arrest of 97 suspects and the recovery of several weapons used in the attack,” said the statement.
“The IGP has also reaffirmed the unalloyed zeal of the Force to arrest other involved persons and bring the killers to justice, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining law and order and resisting all sorts of anarchy and unrest in any part of 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,” the statement said.
It added, “As investigations unfold, the Nigeria Police Force is determined to uncover the full extent of this attack and prevent future occurrences of such 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 speedy recovery to those currently undergoing treatment, hoping for their swift return to full health.”
The police also appealed for 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 crimes across the country.
