Police Inspector shot dead during stop-and-search duty in Edo

A police inspector serving under the Ekiadolor Area Command has been killed after armed individuals in a vehicle opened fire during a routine stop-and-search operation in Benin City, Edo State.

The attack happened around noon on Friday when officers on duty attempted to stop an unregistered, heavily tinted black Lexus SUV at a checkpoint. The vehicle allegedly ignored the signal to halt.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CPS Moses Yamu, the behaviour of the vehicle’s occupants raised officers’ suspicions, prompting them to insist on conducting proper security checks.

“The suspicious conduct of the occupants prompted the operatives to make further efforts to subject the vehicle to standard security checks.

“Tragically, in the course of this lawful engagement, one of the occupants of the vehicle suddenly opened fire on the Inspector at close range and zoomed off,” the PPRO stated.

Yamu noted that the Command had launched a comprehensive investigation and an aggressive search for the attackers behind what he described as a heinous act.

He said all intelligence units and operational teams had been mobilised to track down the suspects and ensure they face justice.

The statement also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, particularly during the festive season, stressing that such support is essential for maintaining safety across the state.

The Edo State Police Command reiterated its dedication to safeguarding lives and property and vowed that those responsible for the killing would not escape justice.