Policemen shoot young man on suspicion of possessing illicit drugs in Delta

In less than twenty four (24) hours when the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Disu announced the dismissal of ASP Nuhu and other officers from the Nigeria Police Force, over the extra-judicial murder of one Oghenemine Ogidi in Sapele Motor Park, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, Policemen from Orerokpe Division, Okpe Local Government Area on Thursday evening allegedly shot an unarmed citizen in Okudjere-Ovu Community on suspicion of possessing hard drugs. 

The latest incident occurred at a time when the indigenous people and residents of Delta State are still grappling with the painful memories of the gruesome murder of Oghenemine Ogidi.

It was learnt that the Policemen in collaboration with Anti-Cult allegedly stopped the victim  who many residents say does not spoke or consume alcohol claiming he was in possession of drugs and shot him in his right leg. 

A video obtained from the scene showed sympathizers trying to give help to the victim after the Policemen ran away from the scene for fear of attacks by youths in the area. 

A group under the auspices of Initiative For Social Rights Concerns And Advancements (ISRCA) AKA “No Justice, No Peace” condemned the dastard act and shooting of the victim by the Police. 

The group said, "This incident raises grave concerns, and it is imperative that the Nigeria Police Force and the Delta State Government take serious note of this situation."

ISRCA National Coordinator, Comrade (Amb) Derrick Oritsematosan Agberen in a statement sent to Our Correspondent in Warri noted that, "The primary duty of the police is to protect lives and property, not to harass or brutalize vulnerable members of society."

The group also urged the Delta State Commissioner of Police,CP Yemi Oyeniyi to investigate and identify the police team responsible for this unfortunate and unprofessional conduct attached to the Orerokpe Division Police Station, strictly enforcing disciplinary actions, as such conducts will not be tolerated by civil society.

The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe is yet to reply to a message sent to him for confirmation of the report.