By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Police Command says a joint security patrol team comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the Military and other security agencies has foiled an attempted security breach at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, in Jos South Local Government Area.
The Command said the operation was part of proactive measures aimed at ensuring the safety and security of residents and protecting critical national assets across the state.
In a statement issued to journalists in Jos, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, disclosed that the incident occurred at about 11:23 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, while the joint patrol team was conducting a routine security patrol within the premises of the institute.
According to the statement, the operatives sighted an armed suspect lurking near the first gate of the facility. Upon noticing the security personnel, the suspect reportedly opened fire on the patrol team.
The security operatives responded with what the Command described as “professionalism and superior tactical precision,” engaging the suspect in a gun battle and eventually overpowering him. The suspect was neutralised during the exchange.
The Police said one AK-47 rifle with Breech Number 1969003173 was recovered from the suspect, while his remains have been deposited at a hospital morgue for autopsy in line with due process.
Preliminary investigations, according to the Command, indicate that the deceased suspect was a member of a notorious criminal syndicate.
Security agencies have since intensified efforts to identify and arrest other members of the gang.
The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, CP Bassey Ewah, commended the gallantry, vigilance and effective collaboration between the Police and Military personnel, noting that their swift response prevented what could have become a serious security breach at one of Nigeria’s foremost strategic institutions.
He reassured residents that the state’s security architecture remains robust, with critical national assets and public infrastructure receiving adequate protection.
The Command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agency to support ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security across Plateau State.