The Edo State Police Command has provided an update on the Ekpoma protest and ongoing security operations in the area, following recent incidents of violence and criminality.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, personally led a heavy deployment of security personnel in Ekpoma alongside the Commander, Mechanized 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju Balogun. The operation involved collaboration with sister security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), and local hunters, aimed at sustaining public safety and combating kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Following investigations into the disruption of a peaceful protest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, a total of 52 suspects were arrested for their alleged involvement in violent acts, including vandalism, assault occasioning harm, looting, rioting, cruelty to animals, and other actions that undermined public safety.
The arrested suspects are also alleged to have forcefully entered the palace of the Enogie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness Anthony Ehizogie Abumere, where they reportedly assaulted the traditional ruler and his wife and caused extensive damage to palace property.
Addressing claims circulating on social media, the Edo State Police Command clarified that no peaceful protesters were arrested.
According to the Command, only individuals involved in criminal acts were apprehended, while peaceful protesters were advised to return home and maintain calm. The suspects have since been arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction.
CP Agbonika reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of citizens to engage in lawful and peaceful protest, while maintaining zero tolerance for violence, criminality, or actions that infringe on the rights of law-abiding citizens.
The Police Command urged members of the public to disregard unverified reports and rely solely on credible information, while appreciating the cooperation of residents and assuring them of sustained efforts to maintain peace and security across Edo State.
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