The Federal Capital Territory(FCT) Police Command has debunked a viral report alleging a police inspector was caught transporting an AK-47 rifle with 30 live rounds to an accomplice in Nasarawa, calling it misleading and designed to spark public panic.
Persecondnews recalls that on April 19, police personnel attached to Keffi Motor Park in Nyanya were alerted by the Motor Park Union about a suspicious parcel in a passenger’s possession.
Upon investigation, the officers discovered the parcel contained a magazine.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, clarified in a statement sent to Persecondnews on Monday that preliminary investigations showed Insp. Kasim Usman, of 58 PMF Nasarawa, had found his assigned magazine faulty after an official duty in Abuja.
The statement reads: “With the knowledge and permission of his unit commander, he remained behind in the FCT to have the issue fixed by Police Armorers in the FCT. Upon completion of the repair, and while returning to his duty post via public transport, he wrapped the magazine securely and carried it on his person for safekeeping.
“While the Command acknowledges the need for stricter adherence to protocols in the handling and movement of Police equipment, it is important to emphasize that the viral report claiming the transportation of an AK-47 rifle and ammunition to an accomplice is entirely false and unfounded.
“The officer’s identity and assignment were duly verified, the legitimacy of the magazine confirmed, and no firearm was found in his possession. There was no indication of any criminal intent or conspiracy.
“The incident is viewed as a procedural lapse in judgment rather than a criminal act, as falsely portrayed in the misleading social media reports.
“The Commissioner of Police FCT Command, Ajao S. Adewale condemns strongly, the deliberate fabrication and spread of misinformation information aimed at misleading the public and discrediting the Nigeria Police Force.
“Members of the public are advised to disregard the false report and are urged to refrain from circulating unverified claims capable of inciting unnecessary fear.”
The statement added: “The command remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents across the Federal Capital Territory.
“For emergencies or to report suspicious activity, members of the public are encouraged to contact the FCT Police Command through the following hotlines: 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, 07057337653.”
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