Jos, the Plateau State capital, was engulfed in panic on Wednesday after a bloody clash between security operatives and traders led to the accidental shooting death of a security officer and injuries to five others. The incident occurred during a clearance operation by the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) in collaboration with security personnel to remove illegal traders from the area.
The conflict began when security agents attempted to enforce the clearance, and illegal traders started throwing stones at them. In an effort to disperse the traders, one of the security personnel fired a warning shot. Tragically, the bullet struck an Inspector on the head, killing him instantly.
This operation was part of the state government's effort to enforce Executive Order Number 003, which bans the indiscriminate display of wares on roads within the business area to ensure free traffic flow. The JMDB, supported by combined security forces, was implementing this order when they were met with resistance from the traders.
The Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Alfred Alabo, confirmed the incident and stated that the security officer responsible for the shooting is currently in detention. The incident has heightened tensions in the city as authorities investigate the circumstances leading to the fatal clash.
