Police Arrest Suspects Over Killing Of 3 Officers In Taraba, Recover Stolen Rifles

The Taraba State Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with the killing of three police officers in Donga local government area of the State.

The Command confirmed the development in a statement issued on Saturday by its spokesperson, ASP Victor Mshelizah, in Jalingo.

According to the statement, the suspects, Suleman Abdullahi, 30, and Idris Kauri, 33, both from Akete Village in Donga LGA, were arrested following investigations into the attack on police personnel at Tse Kwe Tor Damisa in the same local government area.

The officers were reportedly ambushed and killed by suspected militias, who also made away with their service rifles.

The police further disclosed that the stolen firearms have since been recovered, while the suspects remained in custody and will be charged to court upon completion of investigations.

“The Command has successfully tracked and arrested some of the suspects involved in the attack. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other accomplices who are still at large,” the statement read.

The Commissioner of Police, Morkwap Dongshal, had earlier visited the scene of the incident as part of an on-the-spot assessment of security challenges in Donga and Takum LGAs.

The statement noted that since assuming duty, CP Dongshal has intensified visibility policing across major towns and highways in the state to deter criminal activity and boost public confidence.

As part of broader security efforts, he also undertook assessments of volatile communities and flashpoints in Takum and Donga LGAs.

During a visit to Takum, the police commissioner met with traditional rulers, community elders, youth leaders and other stakeholders in Kofai Ahmadu and Chanchanji communities to obtain first-hand information and strengthen collaboration between residents and the police.

The engagement, according to the command, was aimed at building trust and improving intelligence sharing to ensure lasting peace in the affected areas.

In a separate development, operatives of the Zing Divisional Police Headquarters intercepted two suspects during a stop-and-search operation at Yonko.

The suspects, Torme Terzugwe, 39, from Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, and Job David, 35, from Toungo Local Government Area of Adamawa State, were allegedly found in possession of 304 rounds of live ammunition.

“They were intercepted while riding an unregistered motorcycle en route to Ganye LGA of Adamawa State. Investigation is ongoing,” the statement added.

The command reassured residents of its commitment to rid the state of criminal elements, noting that it will continue to work with community leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen security.

It also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and useful information.

The police reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, respect for human rights and adherence to the rule of law in all operations.