The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading a viral social media report alleging that a police officer hurled an object at a moving motorcycle, causing a minor to suffer a serious heart injury.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Command described the report as a fabrication that did not reflect what actually happened, stressing that no police officer was involved in throwing any object or committing any act that led to the reported injuries.
According to preliminary investigations, the incident was a road traffic accident involving a cyclist, identified as Akaninyene Noah, who was riding against traffic and collided with another motorcycle conveying two school children to school. The collision caused the riders and passengers to fall, resulting in injuries.
Police said the injured children were immediately rushed to a hospital for medical attention, while the cyclist who violated traffic regulations was arrested and taken to the station, where his statement was obtained. Investigations into the accident are ongoing in line with extant laws.
The Command further disclosed that it has arrested the originator and circulator of the false report, identified as Imoh Emmanuel, whose actions allegedly sparked public panic and misinformation. The suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Urging residents to disregard unverified narratives on social media, the police advised the public to rely only on official and credible sources for information.
The statement, signed by DSP Timfon John, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the protection of lives and property across Akwa Ibom State.
