The acting Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has emphasized the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to collaborate with other agencies in unveiling the culprits behind the recent attacks on security personnel in Imo State.
On Tuesday, members of the Joint Security Task Force, which includes police and military officers, Civil Defense personnel, and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency operatives, fell victim to an ambush by terrorists in Oriagu, located in the Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of the state.
In response to this tragic loss, the IG, as conveyed through a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, affirmed that the Nigerian police will spare no effort in ensuring the apprehension of those responsible for these attacks.
While offering condolences to the friends, families, and loved ones of the deceased officers, Egbetokun also urged anyone possessing valuable information regarding the incident to come forward and cooperate with the police to assist in their investigation.
Adejobi conveyed, “The Nigeria Police Force deeply grieves the recent attack on security personnel in Imo State, a tragic event that has resulted in the loss of precious lives of officers representing various security agencies. These dedicated officers have been steadfast in their mission to maintain peace and safeguard lives within Imo State. The incident, which unfolded on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, in Oriagu, Ehime Mbano Area of Imo State, serves as a stark and painful reminder of the daily dangers and sacrifices embraced by our security personnel as they wholeheartedly commit to the safety and security of our communities.
“The security personnel impacted by this senseless act of violence included Police Officers, Military personnel, members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. They were diligently responding to a distress call from the area, which ultimately turned out to be a hoax designed to lure them into an ambush.
“The acting Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has unequivocally assured the public that the NPF is fully dedicated to close collaboration with relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation into this atrocious act. The police will tirelessly pursue justice, redoubling their efforts to apprehend the culprits and ensure the safety of our officers and the security of our communities. He earnestly appeals to the public to remain calm and vigilant, encouraging them to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the collective pursuit of peace and order in Imo State and across the nation.”
The FFRO further stated, “Similarly, the acting IG, Olukayode Egbetokun, also expressed his condolences to the families of the brave officers who lost their lives, vowing that their sacrifices will be honored. The NPF encourages anyone with information regarding this incident to step forward and actively support the investigative efforts. Information can also be shared anonymously through the NPF Social Media handles @PoliceNG or via email at pressforabuja@police.gov.ng.”
