Benue State Police Command has confirmed the killing of the Naka divisional police officer (DPO), along Makurdi -Naka road, SP Mamud Abubakar, by unknown gunmen.
The police public relations officer, Catherine Anene who confirmed the killing, said, “On January 31, 2023 at about 1:40pm, information was received at Naka Police division Gwer-west local government that armed men blocked Makurdi-Naka road and commuters were running back to Naka town for safety”
She said upon hearing this, the divisional police officer of Naka Police division, SP. Abubakar mobilized a team and moved to the scene.
According to her, “on sighting the police vehicle, the hoodlums engaged them in a gun duel that lasted until the police were able to suppress these hoodlum and rescue people that were held at the road, however, the DPO who led the team sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to General Hospital Naka where he was eventually confirmed dead”.
She said, “The commissioner of police, Wale Abass, who received this unfortunate information with dismay stated that the DPO paid the supreme price with his life after doing so much to secure the people of Gwer-west local government area. He prayed that Almighty God will grant the DPO eternal rest”.
The CP who commiserated with the family and friends of the fallen hero, ordered the immediate deployment of tactical units to be led by CSP. Justin Gberindyer to the area, to bring perpetrators of this act to book and prevent further breakdown of law and order while ensuring that Makurdi -Naka road is now accessible.
He assured the good people of Gwer-West LGA of his commitment to secure them and urged them to remain calm and assist the police with information in dealing with these armed men.