Abuja Traffic Stop Turns Violent as Suspected DSS Operative Allegedly Fires at FRSC Personnel

The Federal Road Safety Corps has accused a security operative attached to the Department of State Services of opening fire during a confrontation with traffic officials in Abuja, in an incident that authorities say could have resulted in serious casualties.

According to the FRSC, the incident occurred on Thursday afternoon during a routine traffic enforcement operation at the RS7.118 Idu Unit Command in the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, the agency said its patrol team had attempted to stop a Toyota Carina for an alleged traffic violation at about 3:20 p.m.

The driver reportedly refused to comply and continued driving recklessly before becoming trapped in traffic near the FRSC Command in Idu.

FRSC officials said the situation escalated when officers approached the vehicle for routine checks.

According to the statement, the driver became verbally aggressive, resisted lawful enforcement procedures and advanced toward the patrol team during the confrontation.

The agency alleged that the suspect subsequently produced a pistol and fired two shots within the vicinity of the command area, triggering panic among officials and bystanders.

“In the face of imminent danger to lives and property, personnel of the Corps acted with remarkable restraint, professionalism and tactical discipline to swiftly disarm the assailant without loss of life,” the statement said.

The FRSC disclosed that one marshal sustained minor bruises during the struggle to subdue the suspect.

Officials said the suspect was immediately handed over to the Nigeria Police at Life Camp alongside the firearm, ammunition components and the vehicle involved in the incident.

The road safety agency said preliminary identification later revealed the suspect to be a personnel of the DSS, adding that the matter has since been transferred to the appropriate authorities for further investigation.

Reacting to the incident, FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed strongly condemned the attack and praised the conduct of the officers involved.

He said the restraint shown by FRSC personnel prevented the confrontation from degenerating into wider violence despite growing tension at the scene.

“No individual, regardless of status, rank or agency affiliation, is above the law,” the Corps Marshal said, according to the statement.

He added that security personnel are expected to demonstrate professionalism by obeying traffic laws and respecting lawful enforcement procedures.

“Firearms and official status must never be used as instruments of intimidation against law enforcement officers carrying out legitimate duties,” he said.

The incident has drawn attention to growing concerns over inter-agency conduct and the use of firearms by security personnel during civilian interactions and enforcement operations.

The DSS had not publicly responded to the allegations as of the time of filing this report.