Benue State Police Command on Sunday, warned against any protest in any part of the state.
The command stated that it gathered from intelligence that some people were planning to stage a protest, warning sternly against any form of protest.
It noted that it is a trying moment for the state.
However, the command did not state if the planned protest was a result of the armed robbery incident that happened in Otukpo last Friday or not.
Recall that several people including an Otukpo Divisional Police Officer, and three police officers were murdered by suspected armed robbers who raided five banks in the ancient town of Otukpo last Friday.
Police have confirmed the death of two of the fleeing robbers after engaging security operatives in a gun duel along Otukpo/Taraku road.
Unconfirmed reports also indicated that four of the fleeing suspected armed robbers were later arrested
In a statement titled, ‘Benue Police Command Warns Against Protest At This Trying Time’ issued by the command spokesperson, Catherine Anene described the planned protest as a plan to sabotage efforts of the police to manage the “fragile security situation” in the state.
The statement read in parts, “The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP. Bartholomew Nnamdi Onyeka has described this as a plan to sabotage efforts of the police to manage the fragile security situation that is currently being handled.
“He further explained that a protest at this time would avail hoodlums and other criminal-minded persons an opportunity to cause mayhem.
“The CP warns intending protesters to refrain from such actions as the environment is not conducive for a protest.
The police boss has also directed the Commanders and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to tighten up security in their areas of responsibility and resist any efforts of protesters to encourage breach of peace.
He also called on stakeholders including; Traditional rulers, Religious leaders, youth leaders, and parents to warn their children/ wards to desist from any form of protest at this sensitive time.
CP Onyeka assured the people of of the state of his commitment to fight crime and enjoined the people to provide useful and timely information to the police.
Source; The Punch.
