Two dead, station razed as soldiers, police clash in Nasarawa

Two individuals were confirmed dead on Sunday following a confrontation between a soldier and a police special constable in Agyaragu Market, located in the Obi Local Government Area.

According to a statement by DSP Ramhan Nansel, the Police Public Relations Officer, the incident began around 12:30 p.m. during an investigation into a reported motorcycle theft.

In response to the theft report, a suspect was arrested by police operatives, including a special constabulary officer from Jenkwe Division. While the suspect was being taken to the police station, a soldier, home on leave from Borno State, intervened aggressively, attempting to halt the arrest.

In the process, he allegedly drew a knife and stabbed the special constable. During the struggle, the soldier was overpowered, and his own knife was reportedly used against him. Both the soldier and the constable sustained severe injuries, with the soldier later confirmed dead.

Following the incident, local youths mobilized and attacked the police station, setting it ablaze. Police officers responded to the violence, resulting in injuries to three attackers, one of whom later succumbed to their injuries.

Upon learning of the disturbance, Commissioner of Police Umar Nadada visited the scene alongside military personnel from Operation Whirl Stroke, the 177 Guards Battalion, and the 22 Quick Response Unit. He promptly deployed additional police forces, including the Police Mobile Force, Counter Terrorist Unit, and Tactical Units, to restore order in the area.

The police statement confirmed that calm has been restored, and an investigation is underway. A manhunt for those responsible for the violence has also been launched.