- Police were responding to violent clashes reportedly involving illegal miners in the area
A Nigerian police officer allegedly shot and killed a motorcyclist in Minna, Niger State, during an operation to disperse suspected thugs, according to reports.
The incident occurred at the M.I Wushishi Eastern Bypass, a busy route due to ongoing road construction. Police were responding to violent clashes reportedly involving illegal miners in the area.
Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, said:
“Reports were received of miscreants wielding dangerous weapons fighting around Kafintella and Angwa-Kampani. Patrol teams were deployed to restore order. During the process, one person was reported dead.”
Abiodun added that investigations are underway to determine the circumstances of the death, denying claims that the victim was killed by police.
Following the incident, tricycle riders protested by blocking the road, prompting police reinforcement to clear the gridlock and restore normalcy.