The Akwa Ibom State Police have taken eight people into custody. They are accused of causing a public disturbance and not following security orders during the incident.
The police also denied reports that shots were fired during the event. They said no officers used their guns during the operation.
Timfon John, the state Police Public Relations Officer, shared this information in a statement on Thursday. He spoke on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare.
John stated that the police acted professionally and with restraint while handling the situation. "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," he said.
The PPRO also mentioned that no injuries from gunshots were reported to the police. He said the eight people arrested are helping with the ongoing investigation. He added that anyone found guilty will face the law.
John informed that the Commissioner of Police has instructed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders, and other officers in the state to stay alert. They should maintain peace while respecting the rights of citizens.
The CP warned that no person or group would be allowed to create violence, intimidate the public, or disrupt peace in the state. "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," John stated.
The police urged residents to stay calm and carry on with their daily activities. They also advised people to ignore rumors and unverified information that might create fear or panic.
They appealed to journalists, bloggers, social media users, and content creators to check the facts about security issues before sharing them.
"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 command stated.
The police reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property while maintaining peace and security across the state.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇