By Jon Egie
Edo State Police Command has refuted claims that the attack on a team of it’s Operatives at Ibillo-Igara Road Junction, on Thursday, Sept 22, was carried out by ISWAP.
A statement issued by the Command’s DPPRO, ASP Jennifer Iwegbu said contrary to the claims, the attack was carried out by fleeing bandits.
The Command recalled that the anti-crime patrol team of the Ibillo division, Edo state attacked and killed five kidnappers on Thursday, August 14, at Ughoshi- Afe bush, Ibillo in Akoko Edo LGA, Edo State and on Thursday, Sept 22, the team was ambushed by ravaging bandits while on another bush combing mission.
“The Command believe this was a mere reprisal attack on our men who had killed five of their gang members early last month, we lost an Operative and a vehicle. After a thorough investigation in collaboration with other Sister agencies, the Command wishes to state that the Command is ontop of the sitution as the CP has emplaced measure to that effect.
“The Command’s tactical teams led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police Operations are currently carrying out an Operation with a view to bringing the assailants to book. Efforts are being intensified as the command is in hot pursuit of their trail.
“The Commissioner of Police Edo State, CP Abutu Yaro fdc commends the gallantry of the Operatives and admonishes them to keep up the morale and not be dampened by what has happened. He further warns criminals in strong terms to prepare for a tougher engagement in the days ahead or flee the state for good.” The statement added.