By Frank Mba
The attention of the Police High Command has been drawn to rumours being circulated in the social media, internet and conventional news media that a Police helicopter detailed for aerial patrol in Kaduna, was shot down by irate youths. We wish to state categorically that this information is false in its entirety.
Admittedly, following the explosion incidents that took place in Kaduna on Sunday 17th June, 2012 and the attendant security challenges, the Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP MD Abubakar, NPM, mni ordered a massive deployment of Police personnel to the State. Police operatives from the Police Airwing were among those deployed to the State.
The Police helicopter is expected among other things to be used in airlifting Police operatives from one spot to another, thereby facilitating quick response in all emergency situations. It is also expected to carry out aerial patrols and other related operations aimed at restoring peace in Kaduna. These operations have been on-going without any hitch. We are therefore, totally surprised at the story making round that the same helicopter that had undergone several successful operational missions up till this evening had suffered a mishap. This is rather unfortunate. Our helicopter is intact, in perfect operational condition and had not suffered any incident whatsoever.
The Police authority wishes to use this medium once again to remind media outfits of their very vital role in the security and well being of the nation. They are therefore, advised to always cross-check their stories and facts from appropriate authority before going to press, especially at a time this, when all men of good will are expected to join the government and security agencies in cultivating, nurturing and promoting peace in our land.
CSP FRANK E. MBA
DEPUTY FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
FOR: FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,FORCE HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA.
