The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has dismissed reports alleging that its officers attacked protesters at Utako Market in Abuja.
In a press statement issued today, the command described the reports as false and misleading, clarifying that their officers were only taking proactive measures to prevent looting during the protest.
According to the statement released by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the police acted based on intelligence that some individuals were attempting to exploit the protest to loot shops in the market.
She emphasized that the police did not target peaceful protesters but focused on preventing criminal activities in the area.
“The operatives only took measures to forestall some miscreants who were taking advantage of the protest to loot shops in the market and as a result, extended focus to them,” the statement read.
SP Adeh further explained that the FCT Police Command could not stand by and allow traders to be robbed of their hard-earned money and belongings, prompting the intervention.
The command reassured the public of its commitment to ensuring the safety of residents while allowing them to exercise their civil rights peacefully.
The police urged the public to disregard what they referred to as “misleading and mischievous” information, reiterating their dedication to maintaining law and order in the capital city.
The incident at Utako Market has stirred conversations across social media platforms, with varying accounts of what transpired.
However, the FCT police have made it clear that their actions were aimed at preventing criminal activity, not suppressing the rights of protesters.
This latest development highlights the continued efforts of the FCT police in balancing the enforcement of law and order with respect for civil liberties.
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