A Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations at the FCT Police Command, DCP Usman Umar was killed by members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria.
The officer was shot while trying to calm the protesters who took over major part of the Central Business District of the city.
According to a statement in Abuja by the Force Spokesman, DCP Frank Mba, three others were injured during the protest.
Mba also said 54 suspects connected to the violence have been arrested and currently in Police custody.
Giving details of the outcome of the protest, he said: “Another violent protest by members of the El-Zazakky group involving over three thousand (3000) of its followers took place today, 22nd July, 2019 at about 12:30pm within the Central Business District of Abuja.
“The heavily armed protesters defying all sense of decency violently attacked innocent citizens and Police personnel on duty.
“In the process, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, FCT Command, DCP Usman A.K Umar, was shot and fatally injured by the protesters.
“The officer who was immediately rushed to the hospital died moments later while receiving treatment.
“Also, two Assistant Superintendents of Police and a Staff of Channels Television sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment.”
On destruction of property, he said: “The violent protesters also razed down a National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Response Post close to the Federal Secretariat, Abuja and two vehicles.”
On number of those arrested, Mba said: “The Police have arrested 54 suspects in connection with the incidents. The suspects are undergoing interrogation and will be arraigned in court as soon as possible.
The IGP, while commiserating with the family of the late officer, condemned and warned that Enough-is-Enough as the Force and the nation at large will not continue to suffer losses on account of reckless and lawless persons and groups in the society.
