Suspected gunman dies after clash with police in Kogi, officer injured
By: Zagazola Makama
A suspect linked to unlawful possession of firearms has died following a violent clash between his gang and police operatives in Idah, Kogi State.
The incident began on July 8, when detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Lokoja visited Aija area in Idah to arrest the suspect, simply identified as Enemi. Upon sighting the police, the suspect reportedly fled by jumping over the fence of his residence and had remained at large.
However, on July 10, fresh intelligence on his whereabouts prompted the Divisional Police Officer in Idah to mobilize a team of operatives, led by Inspector Ojumu Rokan, to effect his arrest.
While attempting to apprehend him, the team came under sudden attack from members of the suspect’s gang, who allegedly tried to disarm and mob the officers.
In the process, the suspect was shot in the leg while trying to escape, but was quickly whisked away from the scene by his accomplices.
During the confrontation, a police officer, PC Usman Kebiru of the Area Command, Idah, sustained multiple injuries after being attacked with machetes, cutlasses, and stones.
He was rushed to the General Hospital in Idah for treatment.
Subsequent reports reaching the division later confirmed that the injured suspect died at his family residence in Idah.
Security across the area has since been heightened, with all formations placed on red alert. Intensive patrols are ongoing to prevent further unrest and track down members of the fleeing gang.
