Police deny firing live ammunition in Orerokpe incident
The Delta State Police Command has denied claims circulating on social media that its operatives fired live ammunition and shot a civilian during an incident in Oviore, Orerokpe. In a
- Admit civilian was hit by tear gas
The Delta State Police Command has denied claims circulating on social media that its operatives fired live ammunition and shot a civilian during an incident in Oviore, Orerokpe.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, described the allegation as false and misleading, insisting that no live rounds were discharged at any time.
According to Edafe, the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on April 30, 2026, when a surveillance patrol team from Orerokpe Division, while on routine patrol within Okuodjedjere community, attempted to apprehend a suspected drug user.
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The spokesman said the officers met resistance from some youths in the area, creating a tense situation, and in a bid to safely disengage and prevent escalation, deployed tear gas as a non-lethal crowd control measure.
He, however, confirmed that a civilian sustained an injury after being struck on the leg by a tear gas canister during the process.
“The victim was taken to the hospital, where he is currently receiving prompt medical attention,” the statement added.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reiterated the command's commitment to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of human rights.
He noted that while the use of non-lethal crowd control measures is permitted under established guidelines, any misuse would be addressed decisively.
The police boss urged members of the public to disregard what it described as false narratives and rely on verified information from official channels.
