A police inspector attached to the Ekiadolor Area Command was shot dead by gunmen during a routine stop-and-search operation in Benin, Edo State, on Friday.
The incident, which occurred around noon, has left the Edo State Police Command in mourning, with authorities vowing to pursue the attackers relentlessly.
According to the spokesperson for the Edo Police Command, CSP Moses Yamu, the attack occurred when an unregistered, heavily tinted black Lexus SUV approached a city checkpoint but failed to stop after being flagged down by police officers.
Yamu said in a statement, “The suspicious behaviour of the vehicle’s occupants prompted the officers to attempt further security checks.
“Tragically, during this lawful engagement, one of the occupants of the vehicle suddenly opened fire on the inspector at close range and sped off.”
The inspector was pronounced dead at the scene, Yamu confirmed.
Following the shooting, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, ordered a full-scale investigation into the attack and initiated an intensive manhunt for the perpetrators.
Yamu further stated that all intelligence and operational assets had been mobilised to track down those responsible and ensure they face justice.
“The Commissioner of Police has also appealed to the public to assist with credible information, particularly regarding any sightings of a vehicle matching the description,” Yamu added.
The police have called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the Command’s emergency hotlines: 08037646272 or 08077773721.
Yamu reassured the public of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, noting that security measures had been heightened across the state, especially as the yuletide season approaches.
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