Members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), better known as Shi’ites, have clashed with the police in Abuja.

The brawl occurred on Sunday at the Wuse area of the federal capital territory (FCT) during the Arba’een symbolic trek observed by IMN members.

In a statement, Josephine Adeh, FCT police spokesperson, claimed members of the group attacked and killed two officers.

The police spokesperson added that three officers were rushed to the hospital for medical attention after the incident.

“The FCT police command wishes to confirm an unprovoked attack by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, popularly known as the ‘Shi’ite’ group, on some personnel of the Nigeria Police Force attached to FCT command at Wuse Junction by traffic light, where two (2) police personnel were killed, three left unconscious in the hospital, and three (3) Police patrol vehicles set ablaze,” the statement reads.

“The proscribed organisation attacked the police checkpoint unprovoked, wielding machetes, improvised explosive devices (locally made bombs in bottles with kerosene), and knives.”

Adeh said several arrests have been made, adding that normalcy has returned to the area.

‘NUMEROUS MEMBERS KILLED’

In a statement, Sidi Mainasara, spokesperson of IMN, alleged that police killed “numerous members” of the group during the procession.

“We wish to inform the public that police have attacked the ongoing Arba’een Symbolic Trek at Wuse District in Abuja and killed numerous mourners. While trying to disperse the Arbaeen Trek, the police killed and injured numerous mourners,” the statement reads.

“Presently, security agents are busy arresting the Arbaeen Trek mourners.

“Medical practitioners are attending to those critically injured, and details of those killed, injured, and arrested will be made available to members of the press in due course.

“Before the commencement of the trek, we have searched all participants to ensure no infiltration, and the programme will end as scheduled.

“The Arbeen Trek that was conducted yesterday at Masaka and Zuba axis ended peacefully and successfully.”

The Cable