By Abdullahi Inuwa
The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a full-scale investigation into an incident in which a seven-year-old boy sustained an injury during a police stop-and-search operation along Abak Road, Uyo.
The incident occurred at about 9:30pm on September 11, 2026, when personnel of the Police Quick Response Squad (QRS) stopped a vehicle carrying members of a family as part of a routine security operation.
According to preliminary information released by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, a smoke pistol was discharged during the encounter by one of the officers, resulting in an injury to the left hand of the seven-year-old child who was inside the vehicle.
Following the report, CP Azare directed that the officer identified in connection with the incident, Inspector Monday Okonta, be immediately disarmed and detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Uyo.
The Commissioner also ordered an impartial and comprehensive investigation to establish exactly what transpired during the encounter and determine whether any officer breached police rules or operational procedures.
In a move underscoring the seriousness attached to the incident, CP Azare personally visited the injured child at the hospital.
During the visit, the Commissioner interacted with members of the boy’s family and assessed the child’s condition. He assured them that the Command would ensure that all circumstances surrounding the incident were thoroughly investigated.
The Police Command said the child is currently in stable condition and responding to treatment.
CP Azare expressed concern over the incident, stressing that the Police would not prejudge the outcome of the investigation but would ensure that the process is conducted professionally, transparently and fairly.
The Commissioner reiterated that police officers have a responsibility to carry out legitimate duties, including crime prevention, stop-and-search operations and the protection of lives and property.
He, however, emphasised that such responsibilities must be exercised with professionalism, restraint and a strong regard for the safety, dignity and rights of members of the public.
According to him, the Command would not shield any personnel found to have acted recklessly or abused official authority.
He further directed that if the investigation establishes misconduct or culpability, the officer or officers involved would face appropriate disciplinary and legal action in line with existing laws and police regulations.
The Commissioner appealed to the affected family and the wider public to remain calm while the investigation runs its full course.
He assured the public that the Command would pursue the matter fairly and objectively, saying genuine complaints against police personnel would continue to receive prompt attention.
CP Azare also urged residents to continue cooperating with officers at lawful checkpoints and during stop-and-search operations, noting that such security measures remain important to crime prevention and public safety.
The Command maintained that its officers would continue to perform their constitutional responsibilities while ensuring that accountability and respect for human rights remain central to policing in the state.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, upholding the rule of law and maintaining professional standards in the discharge of its duties.
The statement was signed by DSP Timfon John, LLB, Anipr, Police Public Relations Officer, Akwa Ibom State Command, for the Commissioner of Police, on September 12, 2026.
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