The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) operative captured in a viral video engaged in a violent altercation with police officers.
The incident, which has sparked public outcry, took place this week at Elizabeth Estate, Abere, Osogbo, the capital of Osun State.
The video, widely circulated on social media, shows members of the police force and NSCDC personnel in a physical brawl, with blows and slaps exchanged between the two security agencies.
Witnesses at the scene claimed that tensions first erupted on Tuesday when policemen from Oyo State arrived to apprehend a resident without presenting a warrant.
NSCDC officers reportedly intervened, blocking the arrest, and the police left the scene.
However, on Thursday, the policemen returned with reinforcements. A witness from the estate, who asked to remain anonymous, shared that the police “came back on Thursday, this time with more men to overpower the civil defence guys.”
The altercation that ensued left one NSCDC operative injured, while the targeted suspect was forcefully taken to the police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Osogbo.
“Their commandant [of the NSCDC] hasn’t done or said anything since,” the witness added, expressing concern over the incident’s escalation and lack of immediate intervention from senior NSCDC officials.
In response to the unfolding drama, Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, issued a statement on Friday, clarifying the police’s stance.
According to Opalola, officers from Oyo State had been on a lawful investigative assignment in Osogbo, aiming to apprehend a suspected criminal.
She noted that the NSCDC officers guarding the estate not only obstructed the police but also allegedly injured two officers and deflated the tires of their vehicle.
“The Osun State Police Command wishes to inform the general public and set the record straight,” Opalola said, emphasizing that the police were conducting legitimate investigative activities when the NSCDC officers intervened.
“The Policemen thereafter called for reinforcement from the nearest Division around the place.
Upon arrival of the reinforcement, the Policemen were rescued, and one of the Civil Defence personnel who assaulted the Police officers and prevented them from performing their lawful duty was arrested and taken to State CID for investigation.”
Opalola confirmed that the matter is under ongoing investigation to ascertain the details of the altercation and to ensure justice is served.
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