Police warn personnel against misuse of firearms 

The Imo State Police Command has warned men and officers of its command against misuse of firearms during official engagement.

In a press statement issued by the spokesperson of the Command, DSP Henry Okoye, it was informed that the instruction was in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to build a more professionally competent police force.

In carrying out the directive, the State Police Command embarked on what it termed an in-house musketry refresher training for 200 personnel drawn from tactical units and divisions across the state.

The training, which was held at the Command Headquarters in Owerri, aimed at improving firearms handling, strengthening weapon safety, and enforcing operational discipline.

The exercise, according to Okoye, was also designed to enhance the competence and readiness of personnel to effectively tackle evolving security threats across the state.

Addressing participants, the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, underscored the critical importance of responsible firearms handling.

He reiterated that there is no such thing as accidental discharge in the Nigeria Police Force, warning that any misuse of firearms will attract severe disciplinary consequences.

CP Danjuma used the moment to urge all participants to take the training seriously and internalize the principles being taught.

The release further informed that the training was anchored by CSP Abdullahi Wase, 2i/c Commander, 18 PMF Owerri, who led participants through intensive modules including tactical shooting techniques, close-quarter drills, judgment-based use-of-force scenarios, rifle assembly and disassembly, as well as justification for the use of firearms in line with Force Order 237.

The command’s spokesperson maintained that the ongoing exercise is in line with the command’s commitment to promote continuous training and professional development, which, according to him, acts as a pathway to improve policing, public trust, and effective law enforcement.