Police inspector killed as gunmen attack check point in Edo

A routine stop-and-search operation turned deadly on Friday in Benin City, the Edo State capital, as gunmen opened fire on police officers, killing an inspector attached to the Ekiadolor Area Command.

The Edo State Police Command’s spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident in a statement issued to journalists. According to Yamu, the attack occurred around 12 p.m. when officers flagged down a black, unregistered, heavily tinted Lexus SUV at a checkpoint.

Despite repeated signals to stop, the occupants of the vehicle ignored the officers—an action that heightened suspicion and prompted the police team to initiate further security checks. It was during this attempt that the gunmen reportedly opened fire, fatally striking the inspector before speeding away.

According to him, the inspector died on the spot.

Following the attack, the police spokesman said the Commissioner of Police in the state, Monday Agbonika, had ordered a full-scale investigation and an intensive manhunt for the perpetrators.

He stated that all intelligence and operational assets had been deployed to track down the assailants and ensure they face justice.

He quoted Agbonika as appealing to the residents to assist with credible information, especially regarding any sighting of a vehicle matching the description.

“Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and report to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency hotlines: 08037646272 or 08077773721,” Yamu added.

He reassured the public of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that security had been heightened across the state as the yuletide season approaches.