The Taraba State Police Command has dismissed claims circulated after a recent military operation in Karim Lamido Local Government Area, insisting that a police officer allegedly detained by soldiers was wrongly portrayed as being linked to criminal groups.
In a statement released yesterday by the Acting Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Mshelizah, the Command clarified that the officer “was at his assigned post in full uniform, carrying out his duties when the incident occurred.”
According to the statement, the Command moved quickly to correct what it described as a wave of misleading reports triggered by the Army’s earlier announcement.
“There is a need to set the record straight so that residents are not misled,” Mshelizah said. “The officer never left his duty station, and nothing about the situation suggested any form of misconduct.”
Furthermore, the Command stressed that early findings disproved allegations that the officer was apprehended in the company of armed groups or discovered with illegal weapons.
Police authorities explained that the officer remained at his duty point during the unrest, even as civilians fled the area.
“He stayed back because that is what duty demands,” the Command added.
“He cooperated fully with the soldiers who arrived at the scene, and no evidence has shown he breached protocol.”
The release noted that an internal review is underway, but no indication has emerged linking the officer to wrongdoing.
A senior police source familiar with the case said, “It is important the public understands that dedication should not be mistaken for guilt.”
The Police Commissioner, CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimeyin, reaffirmed the Command’s pledge to uphold professionalism and discipline across the ranks.
She warned that the police would take action against individuals spreading false claims aimed at damaging the reputation of its personnel.
“Smearing officers without verified facts harms security efforts,” she stated. “We will not watch misinformation endanger the confidence of the public.”
Residents were encouraged to verify information through official platforms and promptly report any credible security concerns.
The Command concluded by assuring citizens of its continued commitment to peace and safety across Taraba State, emphasising that transparency remains a core priority in its operations.
Further developments in the investigation may alter the public’s understanding of the incident, particularly as tensions in the region intensify scrutiny of security agencies and their interactions during joint operations.