Gunmen Attack Security Patrol in Plateau, Two Killed

Gunmen attacked a joint security patrol in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State early on Tuesday. A police inspector and an Air Force corporal were reportedly killed, and their service weapons were taken.

Community sources told PUNCH Metro in Jos on Tuesday that the attack happened around 5:00am. Four security personnel from two different locations set up a snap roadblock on the Ganawuri, Sabon Gida road when the ambush occurred.

A source, who asked to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the situation, said, "While the team was returning to their respective duty posts, two of the personnel failed to return. This led troops to launch a clearance operation quickly."

During the search, security forces found the bodies of the missing officers. The source stated, "Security forces discovered the bodies of the security operatives, one Inspector of the Nigeria Police Force and one Lance Corporal of the Nigerian Air Force. Their service weapons had been taken by the attackers."

Another local, identified as Catherine, mentioned that the bodies of the deceased were taken from the scene, and their motorcycle was also recovered.

She noted that early investigations suggest the ambush happened in a dangerous area. "Preliminary findings indicated that the ambush occurred near an area previously occupied by Fulani herders, who had fled with their cattle before reinforcements arrived. The attack site was also close to a native settlement," she said.

Catherine added that security agencies are increasing operations in the region. "Security forces have since commenced cordon-and-search operations around nearby communities, while clearance operations are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and recover the stolen weapons," she stated.

The spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, could not be reached for comment on Tuesday. However, a source at the command headquarters, who wished to remain anonymous due to a lack of authority to speak, confirmed that investigations are ongoing.

"I heard of the unfortunate incident, but I also know that investigations into the incident are ongoing," the source added.