By NewsBits
The Enugu State Police Command said it has taken note of a recent article published in a section of the mainstream media on January 16, 2024, alleging a disturbance involving gunmen in the Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Upon thorough examination of the report and a comprehensive review of available records, the Command unequivocally refuted the contents as “misleading, inaccurate, fictitious, and sensational.”
The article made baseless claims, such as the alleged abduction of seven wedding guests in the mentioned local government, for which no evidence or incident supports, according to the police. The police command also said the report incorrectly suggested a confrontation between gunmen and soldiers, a claim debunked by the absence of any such incident.
The Enugu police command advised the publishers to provide credible evidence to substantiate their assertion regarding the purported abduction of wedding guests. Furthermore, the report highlighted the tragic incident involving the shooting and murder of the traditional ruler of Adani Autonomous community on the night of 22/12/2023.
The police command, however, regretted that the same report failed to acknowledge the “swift response of the Command, which led to the arrest, arraignment, and remand of eight suspects.”
In a statement issued by the police spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, the Command said that the “report also prematurely mentions the abduction of Romanus Chikwelu (male) and three others, without verifying the facts.” Contrary to the report, the victims were expeditiously rescued by joint security forces, according to the Command.
Expressing disappointment over the publication, Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, advised media practitioners, both in mainstream and new media, to exercise caution and responsibility in disseminating information. He emphasized the importance of fact-checking and urged journalists to refrain from spreading unverified and sensational stories that could cause fear and panic among the public.
CP Uzuegbu reiterated the commitment of the Police to combat all forms of crime and maintain the robust security atmosphere in Enugu State. Acknowledging the crucial role of media practitioners in investigative journalism, he encourages collaboration to ensure accurate reporting and the verification of information. He called on media practitioners, particularly those in the state to continue working collaboratively with law enforcement agencies, promoting responsible journalism and accurate reporting on security situations.
