19 arrested as proscribed Islamic Group, Security Forces clash in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 19 suspects following a violent clash between members of the proscribed Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) and security personnel in Wuse 2, Abuja.

The confrontation, which erupted in the Banex Area of Aminu Kano Crescent on Friday afternoon, resulted in multiple casualties, including military personnel and civilians. Several passers-by also sustained injuries during the unrest.

Confirming the incident, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Ajao Saka Adewale, described the attack as “unprovoked and unacceptable.” Speaking through the FCT Police spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, he disclosed that one security operative succumbed to injuries at the National Hospital, Abuja.

According to Adeh, members of the proscribed IMN group, also known as the Shi’ites, launched an assault using firearms, cutlasses, catapults, sticks, stones, and petrol bombs, leaving three security operatives critically injured.

“Upon deployment, security forces were met with heavy gunfire, resulting in casualties. One of the injured operatives later died at the hospital. However, 19 suspects have been arrested while others managed to escape. Investigations are ongoing to bring all perpetrators to justice,” she stated.

The FCT Police Commissioner has vowed to crack down on those responsible, warning that attacks on security forces will not be tolerated. He also urged residents to remain calm and report suspicious activities via the following emergency numbers:
08032003913, 08061581938, 07057337653, 08028940883.