Police Dismiss Viral Video, Say Ankpa Firearms Training Legitimate

The Kogi State Police Command has dismissed as false a viral video alleging that some persons were being trained in the use of firearms for political purposes in Ankpa Local Government Area of the state.

The Command said preliminary investigation showed that the exercise was a legitimate training programme organised by the Kogi State Vigilante Service for members of its Mining and Boundary Vigilante Group.

In a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, the Command said the training, which had lasted four days, was aimed at ensuring proper handling of newly acquired firearms by the personnel as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture.

It added that the exercise was duly communicated to relevant security authorities before commencement, including details of the programme and the names and photographs of personnel selected for the training.

The Command said the originator of the viral video, during preliminary interviews, explained that his intention was to draw the attention of security agencies to the exercise to ascertain its legitimacy, in line with the “See Something, Say Something” principle.

While commending public vigilance, the police urged residents to exercise caution when sharing information on social media and to refrain from circulating unverified claims capable of causing panic, tension or public unrest.

Members of the public were advised to channel security concerns to appropriate authorities for verification and necessary action.

The Command acknowledged the contributions of the Kogi State Vigilante Service to security operations across the state and its collaboration with the police and other security agencies, assuring that such activities would continue to be properly monitored and conducted within the ambit of the law.

It reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace and security across Kogi State, adding that further information would be made available as necessary.