IGP Orders Immediate Arrest of Bank Robbers Responsible for Killing DPO in Benue

• The Inspector-General of Police orders swift action to bring bank robbery suspects in Otukpo to justice, condemning the violence
• The police have launched a coordinated operation and enhanced security measures during the Ember months to prevent further incidents

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive to the Benue State Commissioner of Police to ensure that all individuals involved in the recent bank robbery in Otukpo, which resulted in the loss of lives, are swiftly brought to justice.

The IGP strongly condemned the audacious robbery, which not only claimed the lives of police officers but also resulted in the death of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Otukpo, Mr. John Adikwu, and innocent civilians.

In a statement, the IGP expressed, “This act of violence is an assault on the principles of peace, security, and justice.” He extended heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.

It was reported that two armed robbers met their end as police operatives engaged them in an intense confrontation while attempting to flee.

The IGP assured the public that every available resource and effort would ensure the swift apprehension and prosecution of the remaining culprits.

The Force Public Relations Officer (PRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, also confirmed that the Nigeria Police Force has initiated a comprehensive and coordinated operation to bring the perpetrators to justice. Additional operational and investigative assets have been deployed to Otukpo and neighbouring states to aid in rapidly capturing the other fleeing criminals.

Responding to this incident, the IGP has placed all police commands and formations on high alert to prevent further attacks on institutions and innocent citizens. He characterized the Otukpo attack as an early warning signal of the challenges often accompanying the Ember months, including bank robberies and related crimes.

Meanwhile, the police in Benue have officially confirmed the tragic death of the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Otukpo, CSP John Adikwu, and three other officers in the attack that occurred on Friday.

Catherine Anene, the Command spokesperson, stated that the robbers were intercepted along the Otukpo-Taraku road after a fierce gun battle in which two criminals were killed. The remaining gang members abandoned their vehicles and fled the forest, and efforts are underway to track them down.

The armed robbers simultaneously targeted Access, First, Zenith, UBA, and Stanbic banks in Otukpo. Despite the valiant efforts of the DPO, CSP Adikwu, and other officers, they could not prevent the attack. Unfortunately, CSP Adikwu and three other police officers who sustained gunshot injuries during the incident were confirmed dead at the hospital. Other injured individuals were promptly moved to medical facilities for treatment.

Anene described CSP Adikwu as a highly experienced officer, noting that he had been transferred to Otukpo only a few months ago. The incident underscores the urgent need for heightened security measures to protect financial institutions and the public during the challenging Ember months.