The Edo State Police Command has cautioned motorists against any form of aggression toward police officers on duty, warning that deliberate attacks will be met with the full weight of the law.

The warning comes in the wake of a hit-and-run incident in Benin City that resulted in injuries to three police personnel.

The command restated its earlier appeal to road users to reduce speed and comply with lawful police checks. In a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the command stressed that motorists have no excuse to recklessly drive through police checkpoints.

According to the statement, speeding through a checkpoint, especially without stopping for checks, suggests an attempt to evade lawful procedures or recklessly endanger the lives of officers on duty.

The warning followed an incident at the Iyekogba Estate Gate, where a driver reportedly drove against traffic, forcefully broke through a police checkpoint barricade, made a U-turn and deliberately drove toward officers on duty, knocking down three of them.

The suspect later lost control and crashed into several vehicles before being subdued and arrested by security operatives. The injured officers were taken to a medical facility, where they are currently receiving treatment.

Police identified the suspect as Nsikak Okon, a 19-year-old who was found to be driving without a valid licence. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was in possession of a black Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV, estimated to be worth ₦28 million.

Further checks showed that the vehicle, which has allegedly been in use since May 2024, was not registered. Items recovered from the suspect included a substance believed to be Canadian Loud and a Sprite bottle containing a sky-blue liquid suspected to be diluted refnol.

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, issued a firm warning, stating that anyone who intentionally attacks or attempts to harm police officers performing lawful duties will face serious consequences, adding that such actions would no longer be tolerated.

The command reassured residents of its continued dedication to maintaining peace and order across the state, emphasizing its commitment to protecting lives and property while upholding citizens’ rights through professional and lawful policing.

Residents were urged to cooperate with security personnel, remain calm, and allow investigations into the incident to proceed.