"On 30 April 2026 at about 1900 hours, a surveillance patrol team from Orerokpe Division, while on routine patrol within Okuodjedjere Community, attempted to apprehend a suspected drug user. The officers encountered resistance from some youths in the area, creating a tense situation. In a bid to safely disengage and prevent escalation, the officers deployed smoke canisters “TEAR GAS”, strictly as a crowd control measure. No live ammunition was discharged at any time during the incident. Regrettably, during the process, one of the smoke canisters struck a civilian on the leg, resulting in to injury. The victim was taken to the hospital, where he is currently receiving prompt medical attention" Edafe said.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi reiterates the command’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of human rights. While the use of non-lethal crowd control measures is permitted under clearly defined guidelines, any misuse or deviation from established procedures will be dealt with decisively. Members of the public are urged to disregard the false narrative being circulated and to rely on verified information from official police channels.