Two officers of the Nigeria Police Force have been seriously injured after being attacked by a mob in Okhuimwun Community, Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
The incident occurred on Monday as the officers, attached to the Force Intelligence Department – Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT), were travelling from Lagos to Benin City for an official assignment.
Eyewitnesses reported that the officers encountered a large crowd blocking the road shortly after the University of Benin (UNIBEN) axis. The crowd, estimated to be in the hundreds, allegedly descended on the officers with stones, sticks, and other dangerous objects.
According to police sources, the officers sustained serious injuries but refrained from using force against the attackers. “Despite the clear provocation and threat to life, the officers exercised commendable restraint,” said Force spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police.
He added that the injured officers are currently receiving medical attention and are in stable condition.
The police have strongly condemned the mob action, describing it as “unlawful and provocative.” Adejobi said the Force has begun a full investigation and promised that those responsible will be brought to justice.
“The Nigeria Police Force warns against acts of lawlessness and unprovoked aggression against its personnel who are committed to maintaining law and order,” he said.
This incident has raised fresh concerns about the safety of law enforcement officers, particularly when carrying out duties in volatile areas. It also highlights the growing tension between security personnel and members of the public in some parts of the country.
The Police Force urged communities to cooperate with security agencies and report grievances through legal and peaceful means rather than taking the law into their own hands.
