The Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Police Command has giving clarity on the murder of Colonel Abdussalam A. Ude, by gunmen on Monday evening.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the Command said investigations ordered by the Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, established that the incident took place in Badna, New Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, and not within the jurisdiction of the FCT.
The Command said it launched an investigation immediately after becoming aware of reports circulating on social media claiming that the officer was attacked in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to the statement, the investigation confirmed that the attack did not occur in Abuja, contrary to claims made in several online publications.
Despite the clarification, the commissioner of police has directed the immediate deployment of operational and intelligence assets to communities bordering Nasarawa State to strengthen security and prevent criminal elements from infiltrating the FCT.
The Command also condemned the dissemination of false and unverified security reports, urging journalists, bloggers and social media users to verify information with relevant authorities before publication.
Ude, a native of Enugu State, was widely regarded as a dedicated professional and had been due for promotion to Brigadier General next year, according to sources.
The attackers ambushed him shortly after he arrived home on Monday evening, opening fire as he alighted from his vehicle.
The gunmen attempted to abduct him, but he fought back despite being heavily outnumbered, refusing to surrender.
His resistance, according to security sources, prevented the assailants from taking him away alive, though they eventually shot him multiple times at close range.
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During the attack, the gunmen also opened fire on me
mbers of his household, leaving his wife, driver and security guard with varying degrees of gunshot injuries. The victims were rushed to hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
Security sources described Ude as a courageous and highly respected intelligence officer who remained composed even in the face of imminent danger.
“He resisted them. From what investigators have gathered, they wanted to take him away, but he fought back. Unfortunately, he paid the ultimate price,” one source familiar with the preliminary investigation said.
The killing has renewed concerns over attacks targeting serving and retired military personnel, particularly within the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
Investigations into Ude’s killing are reportedly ongoing, with security agencies working to determine the motive and identify those responsible.
The FCT Police Command assured residents that it remains committed to safeguarding lives and property and urged members of the public to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding.
Residents were also encouraged to report suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.
Crediblenewsng.com
