A joint security team comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the military and other security agencies has foiled an attempted security breach at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State.

The Plateau State Police Command said the operation was part of proactive measures to strengthen security and protect residents as well as critical national assets across the state.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Alfred Alabo, said the incident occurred at about 11:23 p.m. on July 1, 2026, during a routine patrol within the premises of the institute.

According to him, the patrol team sighted an armed suspect lurking near the first gate of the facility.

“Upon sighting the security personnel, the suspect immediately opened fire on the patrol team. The operatives responded professionally and with superior tactical precision, engaged the suspect and overpowered him. As a result of the operation, the suspect was neutralised,” the statement said.

The police said an AK-47 rifle, bearing breech number 1969003173, was recovered from the suspect. The body has been deposited at a hospital morgue for autopsy in line with due process.

The command disclosed that preliminary investigations indicate the suspect was a member of a notorious criminal syndicate, adding that security operatives have intensified efforts to identify and apprehend other members of the group.

The Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah, commended the gallantry, vigilance and collaboration between the police and military personnel, noting that their swift response prevented what could have been a major security breach at one of Nigeria’s foremost strategic institutions.

He assured residents that the state’s security architecture remains strong and that critical national assets and public infrastructure are adequately protected.

The command urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agency.