By Kamil Opeyemi
The Nigerian Police Force on Saturday put the force’s formations on red alert to avert a repeat of the attacks carried out by robbers in Otukpo Benue state on Friday.
NPO Reported that dare Devil robbed stormed various banks in the Idoma city in the state killing some policemen after initially attacking the police station in the town.
A statement by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Said that the Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun assured that those responsible for the attack will be arrested.
The Inspector-General Egbetokun condemned the armed bank robbery in Otukpo, which he admitted led to loss of lives of his men and civilians.
“This act of violence is an assault on the principles of peace, security, and justice that the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies work tirelessly to uphold,” the statement said.
The IGP extended his condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims who were affected by this senseless act of violence, it noted that two of the suspects were gunned down by operatives while attempting to escape.
He said those responsible have “murdered sleep” admitting as their actions have shaken the Otukpo community to its core.
He assured the public that every resource and effort will be dedicated to ensuring that these individuals are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.
The statement said further, “In response to this grave incident, the Nigeria Police Force has initiated a comprehensive and coordinated effort to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.
“The IGP has ordered the deployment of additional operational and investigative assets and resources to Otukpo, the Benue State Command, and surrounding states to assist in the swift apprehension of the other fleeing criminals responsible for this atrocity, as a follow up to the gunning down of two of the armed robbers after a hot chase on Friday.
“In the same vein, going by this incident, the IGP has put all Commands and Formations on red alert to avert any further deadly attacks on our institutions and innocent citizens of Nigeria more so that the Otukpo attack was an early warning sign of the Ember Month challenges which is often characterised by bank robbery and other related crimes.
“We therefore call upon the public to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities by providing any information that may aid in the investigation and pursuit of the suspects.
“Your assistance is invaluable in our mission to restore safety and security in the affected area and across the length and breadth of Nigeria.
“In the wake of this tragedy, the IGP reiterates the NPF’s commitment to the safety and security of the Nigerian people, standing united against acts of violence and criminality and vowing to work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for this reprehensible act are brought to justice.”