Residents of Udu Local Government Area have raised serious concerns over what they describe as reckless and dangerous operations by some police officers, popularly referred to as “Okowa Police,” accusing them of actions that have allegedly led to loss of innocent lives.
In a statement made available to the press, a concerned resident appealed to the Executive Chairman of Udu LGA, Mr Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode (JP), to urgently intervene and address the growing menace.
According to the report, a tragic incident occurred last year near Ovwian Police Station, where officers allegedly chased a vehicle and engaged in a struggle with the driver over the steering wheel. In the process, the vehicle reportedly lost control and rammed into an innocent bystander, identified as a petrol station manager, who died instantly.
The situation appears to be worsening, as another similar incident was reported earlier yesterday at Ekete Inland.
Witnesses allged that police officers were again in pursuit of a vehicle, which eventually ran into two children. As of the time of filing this report, the condition and fate of the victims remain unknown, heightening fears and anxiety within the community.
Residents have described the trend as alarming and unacceptable, stressing that such operations put innocent lives at risk. They are calling on the local government chairman and relevant authorities to investigate these incidents and enforce safer policing methods to prevent further tragedies.
“The lives of our people must be protected. Law enforcement should not become a threat to the very citizens they are meant to safeguard,” the statement read.
The community now awaits swift action from authorities to restore confidence and ensure the safety of residents across Udu.
