Security Operative Pulls Gun On FRSC Officers, Fired Shots In Abuja Traffic Drama

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says one of its personnel sustained injuries after an armed motorist, later identified as an operative of the secret service, allegedly attacked officers and fired gunshots during a traffic enforcement operation in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Friday, the corps said the incident occurred on Thursday at about 3:20pm around the RS7.118 Idu Unit Command during a routine patrol operation.

According to the statement signed by Osondu Ohaeri, deputy corps commander and corps public education officer, the driver of a Toyota Carina was flagged down by FRSC officials over a suspected traffic violation but allegedly refused to comply.

The corps said the motorist “proceeded dangerously until he was eventually held up by traffic close to the Command”.

FRSC said when officers approached the driver for “routine checks of vehicle and driver documents”, the suspect allegedly became “hostile, verbally aggressive, and resisted lawful enforcement procedures”.

The agency said despite “several tactical and professional attempts” by its personnel to calm the situation, the suspect escalated the confrontation.

“Despite several tactical and professional attempts by FRSC personnel to de-escalate the situation, the offender escalated the confrontation by physically advancing toward officers and later drawing a pistol, which he fired twice within the vicinity of the Command,” the statement reads.

The corps said its personnel responded with “remarkable restraint, professionalism, and tactical discipline” and succeeded in disarming the suspect without any fatality.

“In the face of imminent danger to lives and property, FRSC personnel acted with remarkable restraint, professionalism, and tactical discipline to swiftly disarm the assailant without loss of life,” the statement added, explaining “One Marshal sustained minor bruises during the process.”

The FRSC said the suspect was immediately handed over to officers of the Nigeria Police Force at Life Camp police station alongside the firearm, ammunition components, and the vehicle involved in the incident.

The agency added that preliminary findings later identified the suspect as a DSS operative and that the matter has been transferred to the appropriate state command for further investigation.

Shehu Mohammed, corps marshal of the FRSC, condemned the incident and commended the conduct of the officers involved.

“The Corps Marshal commends the courage, professionalism, and maturity displayed by its personnel who resisted provocation and ensured that the situation did not degenerate into chaos, despite growing public outrage at the scene,” the statement reads.

Mohammed also stressed that security personnel are not exempt from traffic laws and lawful enforcement.

“He further stated unequivocally that no individual, regardless of status, rank, or agency affiliation, is above the law,” the statement added.

“Security personnel are expected to lead by example through compliance with established traffic regulations and respect for constituted authority,” the agency pointed out, adding “Firearms and official status must never be used as instruments of intimidation against law enforcement officers carrying out legitimate duties.”

The corps also called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, urging “inter-agency cooperation, mutual respect, and operational discipline in the collective interest of national security and public safety.”