Police officer killed, another abducted in Gombe herder-farmer clash

Police officer killed, another abducted in Gombe herder-farmer clash

By: Zagazola Makama

A clash between police operatives and suspected herders in Ture Kwei village, Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe State, has left one person dead and a police officer abducted.

Zagazola Makama confirmed from security sources that the incident occurred on Tuesday, while officers were responding to a report of farm destruction.

According to the sources, the incident began when one Gershon Laushege, 65, of Sabon Layin Kaltungo, reported that a Fulani herder had led his cows into his groundnut farm, causing damage estimated at ₦150,000.

A police team led by ASP Oga Karfe was dispatched to the village to invite the suspect for questioning.

“On arrival, the suspect resisted arrest, struck the patrol and guard officer, and assaulted Inspector Hyelda Ephraim, who attempted to intervene,” said the sources.

The suspect’s actions attracted a crowd of other Fulani residents armed with sticks and cutlasses, who allegedly beat Inspector Ephraim, abducted him, and seized his riot gun, cartridges, and bulletproof jacket.

In an attempt to disperse the mob, Inspector Yila Ankama reportedly fired a warning shot, but a man identified as Ahmadu Bappah was hit in the chest.

Bappah and Inspector Ephraim were rushed to the General Hospital, Kaltungo, where Bappah was confirmed dead on arrival.

The sources said police DPO, CSP Nuhu Pama, led a reinforcement to the scene, recovering the seized police items and restoring calm.

The sources added thar “SCID is investigating the matter while efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe release of the abducted officer.
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