One killed as police repel gunmen attack in Nasarawa

The Nasarawa police command says its officers have repelled an attack by gunmen along the Kadarko–Makurdi Road in Keana LGA of the state.

In a statement issued on Friday in Lafia, the state capital, Ramhan Nansel, police spokesperson in the state, said the attack occurred around 10:55 pm on Tuesday.

Nansel said the assailants opened fire on officers on duty after emerging from a forest in neighbouring Benue.

“The gunmen who ambushed and attacked our personnel came from the Benue forest and started shooting sporadically,” the statement reads.

“Displaying gallantry and tactical superiority, the personnel engaged the assailants in a fierce gun duel.

“They successfully repelled the attack and forced the criminals to flee into the Benue forest with suspected gunshot wounds.

“Unfortunately, one police officer, Insp. Sunday Apochie, sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange.”

Nansel said the Kadarko Division responded swiftly and rescued the injured officer, adding that a nearby civilian was killed by a stray bullet from the attackers.

He added that the injured officer is receiving treatment and responding well in the hospital.

The spokesperson said Shetima Jauro-Mohammed, Nasarawa police commissioner, has ordered an investigation into the attack and assured the public of efforts to arrest the fleeing suspects.

The police commissioner also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased civilian.