The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Baba Azare, has ordered the detention of a police inspector allegedly involved in the shooting of a seven-year-old boy during a stop-and-search operation in Uyo.
The incident reportedly occurred at about 9:30 p.m. on Friday along Abak Road, Uyo, when operatives of the Quick Response Squad stopped a vehicle conveying members of a family.
According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, one of the officers allegedly discharged a smoke pistol during the encounter, resulting in the child sustaining a gunshot injury to his left hand.
The officer identified as Inspector Monday Okonta was subsequently disarmed and detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Uyo, on the directive of the police commissioner.
Mr Azare also ordered an immediate investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the officer’s level of culpability.
Following the incident, the commissioner visited the injured child at the hospital, where he met with members of the family and assessed the boy’s condition.
The police said the child was in stable condition and responding to treatment.
During the visit, Mr Azare expressed concern over the incident and assured the family that the circumstances surrounding the shooting would be thoroughly investigated.
He stressed that police personnel must carry out stop-and-search operations and other lawful duties with professionalism, restraint and due regard for the safety and rights of members of the public.
The commissioner further assured residents that the command would not shield personnel found culpable of misconduct, recklessness or abuse of authority.
He said any officer found culpable after the investigation would face appropriate disciplinary and legal action in line with existing laws and police regulations.
The command appealed to the affected family and members of the public to remain calm while the investigation continues, assuring that the process would be transparent, professional and fair to all parties.
Mr Azare also urged residents to cooperate with police personnel at lawful checkpoints and stop-and-search points, while assuring the public that genuine complaints against police officers would receive prompt attention.
