Police Engage Hoodlums in Shootout, Alert Hospitals in Abuja

FCT Police Command has put all medical personnel and hospitals in and around the Federal Capital Territory on high-alert to the possibility of receiving victims with gunshot wounds arising from the shootout between hoodlums and Police during the protest against bad governance in Abuja. A statement by the Command said the measure “followed distress calls on the activities of some hoodlums who took advantage of the ongoing protests which began on Thursday 1st August, 2024, to block the Lugbe end of the Shehu Musa Yaradua Expressway at about 10pm. “The hoodlums embarked on a massive robbery and assault of innocent citizens, which led to an exchange of fire with police operatives in Lugbe area of Abuja.

“In line with the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act 2017, it is instructive to note that such patients come under medical emergencies that require urgent attention in order to save the life of the patient, and should be accorded all necessary medical assistance.

“However, the Police Division/Formation within the jurisdiction of such hospital or health care facility should be informed to interview such patient so as to ascertain their person/roles in the prevailing security situation in the FCT.

“The Commissioner of Police hereby warns unscrupulous elements who may want to hide under the guise of protest to carry out heinous crimes such as armed robbery, shop breaking, rape, assault on innocent citizens and vandalization of public property to desist from such.

“He said Police officers and other security agents have been put on red alert to curtail them and maintain law and order.

“The Commissioner of Police in charge of the FCT, CP Benneth. Igweh appreciated residents of the FCT for their continuous cooperation.

“He assures that all relevant measures will be emplaced to ensure that the current protests do not infringe on their fundamental rights or cause them losses or damage to their property.”

Source: Vanguard