The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Naka, the headquarters of the Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State, Superintendent of Police Mamud Abubakar has been killed in an ambush by suspected herdsmen operating in the area.
Abubakar was responding to a distress call from road users along the Naka-Makurdi Road with his team when the suspected herdsmen ambushed them and killed him in the process.
The Naka-Makurdi Road has become impassable for road users for fear of herdsmen attacks on the one hand and on the other hand, the deplorable condition of the Ankpa-Adoka-Naka to Makurdi federal road which was under construction but was abandoned last year by the contractor.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the killing verbally to Channels Television.
In a subsequent statement, the police spokesperson in the state, Anene Catherine said the Naka Police Division received information on Tuesday afternoon that armed men blocked Makurdi-Naka road and people were running back to Naka town for safety.
“The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Naka Police Division, SP. Mamud Abubakar mobilized a team and moved to the scene,” the statement partly read.
“On sighting the police vehicle, the hoodlums engaged them in a gun duel that lasted until the police were able to suppress these hoodlum and rescue people that were held at the road.
“However, the DPO who led the team sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to General Hospital Naka where he was eventually confirmed dead.”
The Commissioner of Police, Wale Abass who received the unfortunate information with dismay, stated that Mamud paid the supreme price with his life after doing so much to secure the people of Gwer-west Local Government Area. He prayed that Almighty God will grant the DPO eternal rest.
After commiserating with the family of the fallen hero, the CP ordered the immediate deployment of tactical units to be led by CSP. Justin Gberindyer to the area, to bring perpetuators of this act to book, prevent further breakdown of law and order while ensuring that Makurdi -Naka road is accessible.
He assured the good people of Gwer-west LGA of his commitment to secure them and urged them to remain calm and assist the police with information in dealing with these armed men.
