By Elijah Ugani
The Cross River State Police Command has denied allegations that its officers assaulted a mini bus driver, Mr. Imor Sam, with a rifle butt during an encounter at a stop-and-search point, stating that preliminary investigations do not support the claims circulating on social media.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the Command said the incident occurred on July 18, 2026, after the driver allegedly failed to stop when signaled by officers conducting a stop-and-search operation.
According to the police, the driver drove off while a Police Special Constabulary (PSC) officer was attempting to stop and search the vehicle. The Command alleged that the officer was dragged for some distance before falling into a gutter, where he sustained injuries to his mouth, including the loss of a tooth, after he was allegedly punched by the driver.
The Command also refuted claims that the driver sustained his injuries after being struck with a rifle butt by police officers.
“The driver himself, in a recorded video statement attached to this release, confirmed that he was not struck with a rifle butt,” the statement said.
Police said preliminary findings indicate that the injury to the driver’s forehead occurred when he fell and hit the concrete edge surrounding a signpost during a struggle near Atakpa Police Station.
Despite its initial findings, the Cross River State Commissioner of Police has ordered the immediate detention of the officers involved pending the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident.
The Command emphasized that it does not condone unprofessional conduct or the misuse of force by its personnel, adding that any officer found culpable would face disciplinary action in accordance with the law.
It also appealed to members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to allow the investigation to run its course.
“The Cross River State Police Command remains committed to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all persons,” the statement added.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing.