The Edo State Police Command has issued a strong warning to motorists across the state, declaring that any deliberate attack on police officers carrying out lawful duties will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

The warning follows a dangerous hit-and-run incident in Benin City that left three police officers injured after a reckless driver rammed into them at a checkpoint.

In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the command reiterated its earlier directive to motorists to slow down and cooperate with police officers at checkpoints, stressing that disobedience poses grave danger to lives and public safety.

“The command wishes to reiterate this directive and strongly warns that there is absolutely no justifiable reason for any motorist to speed through a police checkpoint except with the intention to evade lawful checks or endanger the lives of officers on duty,” the statement read.

According to the police, the incident occurred at the Iyekogba Estate Gate axis, where a reckless driver reportedly drove against traffic, forcefully breached a police checkpoint barricade, made a U-turn, and deliberately drove back at officers on duty.

The suspect allegedly knocked down three police personnel before crashing into multiple vehicles in the area. He was eventually overpowered and arrested by operatives at the scene.

The injured officers were rushed to a medical facility, where they are currently receiving treatment. Police authorities confirmed that their condition is being closely monitored.

The suspect was identified as 19-year-old Nsikak Okon, who the police described as an unlicensed driver. Preliminary investigations revealed that the black Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV he was driving, valued at about ₦28 million, was unregistered despite having been in use since May 2024.

“Preliminary investigation indicates that the suspect, Nsikak Okon ‘M’, aged 19 years, is an unlicensed driver. A black Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV, valued at ₦28 million, belonging to him, was recovered,” the statement said.

Police further disclosed that items suspected to be illicit drugs were recovered from the suspect during a search of the vehicle.

“The motor vehicle was found to be unregistered. Items recovered from the suspect include a substance suspected to be Canadian Loud and a Sprite bottle containing a sky-blue liquid suspected to be diluted refnol,” the PPRO added.

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, condemned the act and warned that such attacks on law enforcement officers would be met with the full weight of the law.

“Any person who deliberately attacks or attempts to harm police officers on lawful duty will not be spared. Enough is enough,” the commissioner warned.

He emphasised that police checkpoints are established to protect lives and property, not to harass law-abiding citizens, urging motorists to remain calm and cooperative when approaching security points.

The command reassured residents of Edo State of its commitment to professionalism, rule of law, and public safety.

“The command reiterates its unwavering commitment to the protection of the rights and safety of all citizens while ensuring lawful and professional policing across Edo State,” the statement said.

Police also appealed to residents to support security efforts by obeying traffic rules, cooperating with officers on duty, and reporting suspicious behaviour as investigations into the incident continue.