Three Security Operatives Killed as Gunmen Attack NIPSS in Plateau State

Panic gripped the Kuru community in the Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State late Monday night after unidentified gunmen launched a deadly assault on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).

The attack, which occurred around 11:40 p.m., resulted in the deaths of three security personnel, including a policeman and a soldier, who were stationed at the facility’s main entrance.

According to local sources, the assailants stormed the strategic institution and immediately opened fire on the security operatives manning the gate. The initial assault triggered a fierce exchange of gunfire as the security detail on duty fought to prevent the attackers from gaining access into the main campus.

Residents in the surrounding communities reported being thrown into panic by the sound of sustained gunfire that lasted for several minutes before the gunmen were eventually repelled and fled the scene.

While official confirmation from the Plateau State Police Command was unavailable at press time, the management of NIPSS confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Head of Public Affairs Department, Osime Samuel.

The statement acknowledged that a “security incident” took place in the vicinity of the institute in the early hours of Tuesday, but noted that the situation was swiftly brought under control by responding security agencies.

“There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute, and normal activities are continuing as scheduled,” the management stated, adding that an investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances and motive behind the attack.