Police detain officer over shooting of seven-year-old boy in Akwa Ibom
Akwa Ibom Police Commissioner Orders Detention and Investigation Following Shooting Incident Involving Seven-Year-Old Boy
UYO, Akwa Ibom State — The Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered the detention of a member of the Quick Response Squad (QRS) following the alleged shooting of a seven-year-old boy in Uyo, the state capital.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the Commissioner initiated an investigation into the incident, underscoring the command’s commitment to accountability.
Preliminary information indicates that around 9:30 p.m., police officers were conducting a routine stop-and-search operation along Abak Road when they stopped a vehicle carrying a family. During this encounter, it was reported that a smoke pistol was inadvertently discharged by one of the officers, injuring the boy’s left hand.
Upon learning of the incident, CP Azare directed that the officer implicated, identified as Inspector Monday Okonta, be disarmed and detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Uyo while the investigation is ongoing.
Demonstrating the seriousness of the matter, Commissioner Azare visited the injured child at the hospital, where he spoke with the family, assessed the boy’s condition, and assured them of a thorough investigation. The child is currently in stable condition and is responding to medical treatment.
In his statement, CP Azare expressed his concern and commitment to establish the full circumstances of the incident, reaffirming that police duties, including crime prevention and public safety operations, must always be executed with professionalism and respect for citizens’ rights.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reiterated its zero tolerance for misconduct or abuse of authority among its officers. The statement further indicated that if the investigation finds any misconduct, appropriate disciplinary and legal actions will be taken in accordance with relevant laws and police regulations.
The Commissioner called for calm among the affected family and the public, assuring that the investigation will proceed transparently and fairly for all involved parties.
