FCT Police Deny Claims of Attacking Protesters At Utako Market, Say Actions Were Preventive

Date: 01-10-2024 5:27 pm (7 months ago) | Author: Mister Jay Wonder
- at 1-10-2024 05:27 PM (7 months ago)
(m)

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has dismissed circulating reports that its officers attacked protesters at Utako Market in Abuja on Tuesday, labeling the allegations as "false and misleading."

In a press statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the command clarified that the officers were deployed to the market after receiving intelligence about potential looting. According to the statement, there were concerns that some miscreants intended to use the protests as a cover to target and loot shops in the market.

“The officers’ presence and actions were preventive measures aimed at safeguarding the traders and their property, not to suppress peaceful protests,” the statement explained.

The police reassured the public that the right to peaceful protest remains protected under the law. They urged citizens to ignore misleading claims on social media that had raised concerns about the alleged attacks.

“As a responsible agency, we could not stand by and allow traders to be robbed of their hard-earned money and belongings without intervening,” SP Adeh added.

The command reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents, vowing to maintain public order while respecting the rights of demonstrators.

The response comes amid growing public attention to the incident, which sparked outrage online over alleged police misconduct. However, the FCT Police have assured residents that their actions are rooted in public safety and the protection of lives and property during civil demonstrations.


Posted: at 1-10-2024 05:27 PM (7 months ago) | Addicted Hero

Featured Discussions