JOS, Nigeria — In a daring breach of security, heavily armed gunmen launched a nighttime assault on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, near Jos, killing three people—including an on-duty police officer.

The attack occurred late in Tuesday evening, June 16, 2026 when the assailants breached the perimeter of the prestigious think-tank and research institute, which trains Nigeria's top policymakers, military officers, and civil servants.

According to local security sources, the gunmen entered the staff quarters area, caught residents by surprise, and opened fire indiscriminately. The sudden onslaught triggered widespread panic across the sprawling campus.

Security personnel stationed at the facility immediately engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle in an attempt to repel them. Despite their efforts, the confrontation yielded tragic results, as an officer deployed to guard the institute was fatally shot while bravely attempting to hold the defensive line. Additionally, two civilians identified as residents within the staff quarters sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the crossfire.

The gunmen retreated into the surrounding hills under the cover of darkness before tactical reinforcement teams arrived.

Plateau State Police Command confirmed the incident and stated that a massive manhunt has been launched to track down the attackers.

"Joint security forces, including the military and police tactical units, have been deployed to comb the area," a police spokesperson announced. "We are utilizing all available intelligence to ensure the perpetrators of this heinous act are brought to justice."

The attack on such a high-profile, secure institution has sent shockwaves through Jos and neighboring communities. Plateau State has faced recurrent waves of intercommunal violence and banditry, but targeting an elite federal institute like NIPSS represents a worrisome escalation in the audacity of armed gangs operating in the region.

Security has since been heavily beefed up at the institute and surrounding educational establishments as investigations continue.