Police Deny Shooting At ‘Take It Back’ Protest In Rivers State

The Rivers State Police Command has denied allegations that officers opened fire or used teargas to disperse members of the “Take It Back” movement during a protest on Monday.

In a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the police described the claims as “unfounded” and “false,” asserting that officers were deployed based on intelligence reports regarding the protest.

According to the statement, what was initially reported as a protest was allegedly a gathering of individuals involved in criminal activity, including the theft of mobile phones and other personal belongings from the public.

“On arrival, a group of miscreants was observed engaging in criminal acts, including stealing mobile phones and other valuables from unsuspecting members of the public. Our operatives responded swiftly, dispersing the individuals,” Iringe-Koko said.

She dismissed the allegations against the police as “deliberate fabrications by mischief makers” aimed at inciting public unrest and creating unnecessary tension in the state.

The police urged the public to disregard what they called misleading narratives and emphasized their commitment to maintaining public safety.

“The Rivers State Police Command strongly condemns this act of misinformation and warns those behind the spread of such falsehoods to desist immediately. Disseminating unverified and misleading information poses a serious threat to public peace and security,” the statement added.

The Command reassured residents of its dedication to protecting lives and property lawfully and professionally, encouraging the public to report suspicious activity through official channels.

However, eyewitness accounts from journalists covering the protest contradict the police version of events. Multiple reporters described the demonstration as peaceful before it was disrupted by law enforcement officers.

Some journalists sustained injuries while attempting to flee after police reportedly fired teargas and, according to protesters, even live rounds. Among those affected was Channels Television correspondent Charles Opurum, who was arrested during the coverage but later released.