Suspected hoodlums have attacked Federal Fire Service personnel responding to an emergency in Gwarimpa, Abuja.
The attack left one firefighter with a head injury after the assailants allegedly pelted the crew with stones.
The Federal Fire Service (FFS), FCT Command, condemned the incident on Saturday, November 14.
Its spokesperson, Barnabas Anyam, said firefighters from the Kubwa Metropolitan Fire Station received a distress call on Friday morning.
A female resident had requested their assistance, prompting the crew to respond to the emergency.
However, suspected hoodlums attacked the firefighters as they carried out their duties.
“The firefighters were attacked by suspected hoodlums who pelted them with stones, leaving one of the crew members injured,” Anyam said.
He confirmed that rescuers immediately took the injured firefighter to hospital for medical attention.
Police Investigate Attack on Firefighters
Anyam disclosed that the command had reported the incident to Galadima Police Station.
He also said police had arrested the suspected perpetrators. They are currently under investigation.
FCT Fire Service Controller, Muhammad Anas, expressed concern over attacks on emergency responders.
He stressed that firefighters must perform their duties without intimidation, harassment or violence.
Anas warned that anyone who attacks or obstructs firefighters during emergencies would face the law.
Fire Service Appeals for Public Support
The controller urged residents to support firefighters during emergency operations.
He also called on members of the public to stop interfering with rescue efforts.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to providing prompt emergency response across the Federal Capital Territory.
The incident has again raised concerns about the safety of emergency workers. Attacks on first responders can obstruct rescue operations and put more lives at risk.
