Police Probe Officer Over Shooting of Seven-Year-Old Boy in A’Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has detained an officer and commenced an investigation after a seven-year-old boy was injured during a stop-and-search operation in Uyo, the state capital.

The incident occurred on Friday, September 11, 2026, at about 9:30 p.m. along Abak Road, involving personnel of the Quick Response Squad.

According to the police, officers conducting a routine stop-and-search operation stopped a vehicle carrying members of a family.

During the encounter, a smoke pistol was allegedly discharged by one of the officers, injuring the seven-year-old boy who was inside the vehicle.

The boy sustained an injury to his left hand and was taken to a hospital for medical attention.

Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police ordered an immediate, thorough and impartial investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The officer allegedly involved, identified as Inspector Monday Okonta, was disarmed and detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Uyo pending the outcome of the investigation.

The police commissioner also visited the injured child at the hospital, where he met with the family and assessed the boy’s condition.

The command assured the family that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be fully investigated and that appropriate action would be taken based on the findings.

The police said the investigation would determine how the weapon was discharged and establish the circumstances that led to the child being injured.

The incident has renewed concerns over the handling of firearms during routine police operations, particularly where members of the public are involved.

The command said it remained committed to ensuring that officers operate within established rules and procedures while carrying out their duties.

The investigation is expected to establish whether any operational or disciplinary violations occurred and determine the appropriate action against the officer if wrongdoing is established.

The police urged members of the public to remain calm while the investigation continues, assuring them that the matter would be handled transparently.

The incident comes amid continued calls for greater accountability and professionalism in police operations, particularly during stop-and-search exercises involving civilians.

The command said further developments would be communicated as the investigation progresses.