Cultists ambush security team, kill senior police officer in Abuja raid, 19 suspects arrested
By: Zagazola Makama
A senior security officer has been killed and several others injured following a violent clash with suspected cultists and drug dealers at Bakasi Yimitu Village, Waru area of the Federal Capital Territory.
Sources reliably informed Zagazola Makama that the clash occurred late Wednesday night during a joint operation targeting a notorious criminal enclave in the area.
The operation, based on credible intelligence, involved members of a surveillance team and a local vigilante group known as the Destiny Hunters.
According to sources, the hoodlums launched a fierce attack on the operatives, seriously injuring several, including the Second-in-Command of the Waru Outstation, identified as DSP Amos Biko, and the Commander of the Destiny Hunters, Philibus.
Three patrol vehicles were destroyed in the ambush, while a riot long-range firearm and cartridges were also carted away by the attackers.
In a retaliatory move, the assailants proceeded to vandalise the Waru Outstation, smashing glass windows and damaging six privately owned vehicles parked within the premises.
The injured officers were rushed to Shekworhishama Hospital in Kabusa, where DSP Amos was later confirmed dead. His body has since been moved to the Federal Medical Centre in Jabi.
So far, 19 suspects have been apprehended in connection with the incident. Two of the suspects, who sustained serious injuries, were taken to Asokoro General Hospital, where they were pronounced dead on arrival. Their bodies have been deposited at the hospital mortuary.
Security personnel have since brought the situation under control, and normalcy has been restored to the affected area.
