Gunmen Kill Police Inspector, Air Force Personnel in Plateau Ambush

Gunmen have killed a police inspector and a Nigerian Air Force lance corporal during an ambush on a joint security patrol in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The attack reportedly occurred in the early hours of Tuesday along the Ganawuri–Sabon Gida Road while security personnel were returning to their respective duty posts after mounting a snap roadblock.

According to security sources, four personnel drawn from two guard locations had participated in the patrol before the ambush took place.

The incident was first reported by counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama, which quoted sources as saying the attackers also fled with the victims’ service weapons.

The report indicated that concern arose after two members of the patrol failed to return to their duty posts, prompting security forces to launch an immediate search and clearance operation.

During the operation, troops reportedly discovered the bodies of the slain police inspector and Air Force lance corporal.

Their service rifles were said to have been taken by the attackers before they fled the scene.

Security personnel later evacuated the bodies, while the motorcycle used by the victims was successfully recovered.

Preliminary investigations suggested that the ambush occurred near an area previously occupied by herders who had reportedly left the location with their cattle before reinforcement teams arrived.

The attack site was also said to be close to a Berom community.

Following the incident, security agencies commenced extensive cordon-and-search operations across surrounding communities in an effort to identify and apprehend those responsible.

Troops have also intensified clearance operations in the area to recover the stolen weapons and prevent further attacks.

Authorities said investigations into the ambush remain ongoing, while additional security deployments have been made to strengthen surveillance in the affected communities.

The latest attack highlights the continuing security challenges in parts of Plateau State, where clashes and attacks have persisted despite increased military and police operations.

Security officials have assured residents that efforts are being intensified to track down the perpetrators and restore confidence in the affected areas.

Further details are expected as investigations progress and security operations continue.