Nationwide Protest: Attack, Other Crimes On Citizens Won’t Be Tolerated – RIvers CP
From ERIC MOORE, Port Harcourt
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olatunji Disu, has warned that attack on innocent citizens by those protesting against bad governance will not be tolerated.
Disu gave the warning after he had assessed the day one protest in Rivers State on Thursday.
He commended the officers of the command for their professionalism in managing the situation.
State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Grace Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police (SP), in a press release said the officers peacefully related to and accompanied the protesters throughout the process.
The CP, however, frowned at the conduct of groups of persons along NTA Road, Pleasure Park, Igwuruta-ali, and Airport Road.
According to the statement, the groups were restricting vehicular movement, banging on vehicles, and extorting passengers.
“Some (youths) were even seen brandishing sticks.”
The CP cautioned the protesters to conduct themselves peacefully and desist from infringing on the rights of others.
He said: “Blocking roads, harassing passers-by, and engaging in looting or other crimes do not constitute lawful protest and will not be tolerated.
“The police will take necessary action against such unlawful acts.”
The CP further advised parents and guardians to speak to their children and wards to act within the ambit of the law.
Disu continued: “Citizens are implored to go about their lawful duties, as the Police are committed to protecting lives and property.”