The Akwa Ibom State Police Command wishes to address reports circulating in some quarters alleging that shooting incidents occurred in the State in connection with recent public disturbances.
A statement signed by the command public relations officer DSP Timfon John said the Command wishes to state clearly that no shooting incident was recorded in connection with the incident under reference. Police personnel deployed to maintain law and order acted with professionalism and restraint, and no firearm was discharged by Police officers during the operation.
Furthermore, no gunshot injury has been recorded or reported to the Command.
However, eight persons were arrested in connection with acts capable of causing a breach of public peace and for allegedly disregarding lawful security directives. The arrested persons are currently assisting the Police with ongoing investigations, and anyone found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders and operational personnel across the State to remain vigilant and continue to maintain the peace with the highest level of professionalism, restraint and respect for the rights of citizens.
The CP has also warned that while the Command will continue to protect the lawful rights of every resident, no individual or group will be permitted to hide under any guise to cause violence, intimidate members of the public or disrupt the prevailing peace in Akwa Ibom State.
Members of the public are urged to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities. They are also advised to disregard rumours and unverified reports capable of causing unnecessary fear and tension.
The Command particularly appeals to media practitioners, bloggers, social media users and content creators to verify security-related information through appropriate channels before publication.
For the avoidance of doubt, Akwa Ibom State remains calm. No shooting incident was recorded, no gunshot injury was reported, and eight persons were arrested in connection with the disturbance.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command remains committed to the protection of lives and property and will continue to take all lawful measures necessary to preserve peace and security across the State.