Twenty Personnel of the Nigeria Police Elite Squad on a rescue mission have been attacked by suspected herdsmen in Agadama community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, South-South Nigeria.
The Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, NPF were among a group conducting rescue operation for kidnapped individuals in a forest at Bentsiga Buplesi community in Ugheli.
While confirming a Situation Report, SITREP exclusively obtained by AIT.live, Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the unfortunate incident occurred following the attack on five police operatives from the Force Intelligence Response Team, IRT during a distinct rescue mission earlier in the week which left two of the operatives dead and three others wounded in the state.
AIT.live about that 20 detectives embarked on the mission to free the kidnapped individuals, employing sophisticated technology to pinpoint the kidnappers’ hideout in the forest. Difficulties in communication arose as mobile phone networks became inaccessible within the forest, hindering the officers’ ability to request backup.
Consequently, the encounter with the suspected herdsmen resulted in a gunfire, leading to the killing and disappearance of the officers and the escape of the main suspect.
The fallen officers were reportedly able to send messages via SMS and WhatsApp to their superiors, alerting them to the communication issues.
According to ACP Adejobi, as investigations into the tragic occurrence persist, the exact number of casualties and missing persons continues to be verified by the Force Authorities, and an official statement should be expected soon.
Meanwhile, the profiles of those lost, including Inspector Abbey Olu of the Force Intelligence Response Team, reflect their dedication and commitment to their duties.
Inspector Abel Olobum, Sergeant Ayere Paul, Sergeant Cyril Obretim, and three others from the Police Mobile Force, PMF 51, are among those whose whereabouts remain unknown following the incident.
For now, the situation remains tensed as the search for the missing officers is intensified, causing deep concern among both the community and the police for the safety and well-being of the dedicated personnel involved in the operation and the kidnapped victims.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
