HomeAfricaNigeriaTwo Policemen Killed in Clash with Islamic Group in Abuja

Two Policemen Killed in Clash with Islamic Group in Abuja

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  • Three Policemen Critically Injured, Patrol Vans Set Ablaze
  • 52 Members of El-Zakzaky’s Group Arrested

In a violent confrontation yesterday between security forces and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), commonly known as the Shi’ites, two policemen were killed and three others were critically injured in Abuja.

The IMN, led by Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, has a history of clashes with security personnel, particularly during religious processions that often escalate into violence. Following a series of such incidents, the group was banned by the Muhammadu Buhari administration on July 26, 2019.

According to the police, the Shi’ites were armed with various weapons during their procession, which led to an attack on a police checkpoint. The incident, which occurred at the Julius Berger junction in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), resulted in the burning of three police vans and an exchange of gunfire between the group and the security forces.

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However, the IMN has disputed the police account, insisting that their members were unarmed and peaceful during the procession.

FCT Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, confirmed that 52 members of the group were arrested following the confrontation, and he assured that they would be prosecuted. He also vowed that the police would intensify efforts to curb the activities of the IMN.

Josephine Adeh, the FCT Police Command spokesperson, provided further details in a statement, saying, “Two police officers have died, three others are unconscious and receiving treatment, and three patrol vehicles were destroyed. The proscribed group attacked the police checkpoint without provocation. Several arrests have been made, and the Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, has condemned the attack, pledging to bring those responsible to justice.

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READ MORE: 5 Injured in Mosque Stabbing Incident in Turkey

She added that the situation has been brought under control and that the police are on high alert to prevent any further incidents.

On the other hand, the IMN provided a different version of events. In a statement, Sheikh Sidi Munir Mainasara Sokoto, the group’s spokesman, said, “We wish to inform the public that the police attacked the ongoing Arba’een Symbolic Trek at Wuse District in Abuja, resulting in the deaths of mourners. While trying to disperse the Arba’een Trek, the police killed and injured numerous participants. Currently, security agents are arresting mourners, and medical practitioners are attending to those critically injured. Details of those killed, injured, and arrested will be made available to the press.

He also mentioned that an earlier Arba’een walk, which took place on Saturday in the Masaka and Zuba areas of the capital, concluded peacefully and without incident.

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The IMN, headquartered in Zaria, Kaduna State , is affiliated with the Shi’ite Islamic sect, which traces its origins to Iran.

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