Protest turns violent in Rivers, police move in

Protest turns violent in Rivers, police move in

The Rivers Police Command has warned the ongoing protest in Rivers State is assuming a frightening dimension.

The police said the protesters were engaging in unlawful acts such as extortion, destruction of vehicle and harassment of business owners.

On Tuesday, there were fears among residents of some areas in Port Harcourt following warnings by protesters on Monday.

The protesters warned residents, motorists and shop owners to either join the protest or stay indoors.

Many shops that opened on Tuesday were seen attaching braches of trees and leaves on their shops and businesses premises to show solidarity to the protesters.

At Rumuokoro area of Port Harcourt, protesters were seen going violent and setting up bonfires.

The police said the lack of clear leadership among the protesters was gradually leading to a breakdown of law and order and vowed to arrest and prosecute any one infringing on the rights of others.

Rivers police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, in a statement on Tuesday morning confirmed that the  protest was turning another shape.

Iringe-Koko said the command was closely monitoring the protest in the state and was providing security.

The police in the statement expressed worry over the call by protesters on traders and motorists to stay at home or join the protest.

The statement said:  “On August 5th, 2024, the command observed that the protest in Rivers State has taken a concerning turn.

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“The protesters were earlier advised to conduct their demonstration peacefully within designated locations, while the police would provide adequate protection and isolate any criminal elements.

“However, the command has noticed a lack of identifiable leadership or coordination among the various groups, leading to a breakdown of order.

“Regrettably, the protesters have resorted to unlawful acts, such as burning tires, extorting motorists, blocking roads, damaging vehicles, harassing business owners, and stealing from innocent residents.

“Furthermore, a group has threatened that the pattern of the protest will change on August 7th, 2024, calling on traders and motorists to stay at home or join the protest.

“The Rivers State Police Command affirms the constitutional right of citizens to protest and express their views.

“However, the command has observed clear indications that the organizers are losing control of the protesters, who are resorting to more violent and criminal conduct.

“Therefore, the police will act decisively to arrest and prosecute any individual who attempts to infringe on the rights of others or engage in criminal activities under the guise of the protest.

“The police will take necessary and decisive action immediately the protest stops being peaceful.

“The police advise that protesters should remain in the designated protest areas, Pleasure Park and  Abali Park . They should refrain from disrupting the free movement of citizens or engaging in any unlawful activities.

“The command is committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of all residents during this period.”

Protest turns violent in Rivers, police move in