Ten Fatalities as Shiite Group Clashes with Police in Abuja

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A violent confrontation between members of the El Zakzaky-led Shiite group and officers of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command resulted in the deaths of ten people in Abuja on Sunday. The incident occurred in the Julius Berger area, escalating tensions in the city.

Among the fatalities were both police officers and members of the Shiite group, with several individuals also sustaining gunshot wounds. The clash erupted when members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) allegedly launched an attack on a police checkpoint at Wuse junction.

The FCT Police Command reported that the assailants were armed with machetes, knives, and improvised explosive devices—described as crude bombs made from kerosene-filled bottles. The violent encounter led to the destruction of three police patrol vehicles, which were set ablaze during the chaos.

In response, police officers engaged in a fierce struggle to regain control of the area, leading to significant disruptions in traffic as motorists were forced to divert to alternative routes to avoid the violence.

Josephine Adeh, the Public Relations Officer for the FCT Police Command, confirmed the details of the incident in an official statement. According to Adeh, two police officers were killed in the attack, three others were left unconscious and are currently receiving treatment, and three patrol vehicles were destroyed.

“The proscribed group initiated an unprovoked attack on the police checkpoint. Several suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident,” said Adeh. She added that the Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, has condemned the attack and pledged to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

Adeh assured the public that the situation is now under control and that normalcy has been restored in the affected area. The FCT Police Command remains vigilant and is closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further outbreaks of violence.

As investigations continue, the police have promised to provide updates on any new developments. The incident has heightened security concerns in the capital, with authorities urging residents to remain calm while the situation is being addressed.


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