The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has issued an alert to medical personnel and hospitals in and around Abuja, urging them to be prepared for potential victims with gunshot wounds.
This follows a shootout between police and hoodlums during protests against bad governance.
In a statement, the Command described the events leading to the confrontation: “On Thursday, August 1, 2024, hoodlums exploited the ongoing protests to block the Lugbe end of the Shehu Musa Yaradua Expressway around 10 p.m. The hoodlums engaged in robbery and assaults, prompting an exchange of gunfire with police operatives in the Lugbe area.”
The Command emphasized the significance of the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act 2017, which mandates immediate medical attention for gunshot wounds. Hospitals are instructed to provide necessary medical assistance while informing the local police division to investigate the circumstances surrounding such cases.
Commissioner of Police Benneth Igweh warned against individuals using the protests as a cover for committing crimes like armed robbery, shoplifting, assault, and vandalism.
“In accordance with the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act 2017, it is crucial to treat gunshot wounds as medical emergencies requiring urgent attention to save lives,” Igweh stated.
“Hospitals should also notify the relevant police division to identify and interview such patients to determine their involvement in the ongoing security situation in the FCT.”
The Commissioner cautioned against exploiting the protests for criminal activities. “Unscrupulous elements who use the guise of protest to commit crimes such as armed robbery, shoplifting, assault, and vandalism must desist. Police officers and other security agents are on high alert to maintain law and order,” Igweh warned.
He expressed appreciation for the cooperation of FCT residents and assured them that measures are in place to ensure the protests do not infringe on their rights or cause damage to their property.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the Command’s commitment to protecting the public during the ongoing protests.
