The Cross River State Police Command has yet to publicly respond to trending videos and allegations of police brutality, unlawful arrests and extortion involving some youths in Okuku, Yala Local Government Area.
The development has generated reactions within the community and on social media, following videos purportedly showing police officers allegedly assaulting a young man during an arrest.
According to reports surrounding the incident, the young man was allegedly beaten after questioning the reason for his arrest and was subsequently taken to a police station. It was further alleged that he was not the person initially targeted for arrest but was nevertheless detained.
Claims circulating in connection with the incident also allege that ₦350,000 was demanded for his bail, although these allegations have not been independently verified.
Okuku Youths Raise Allegations
The situation reportedly prompted youths in Okuku to stage a protest, calling on the authorities to address what they described as persistent harassment by security personnel in the area.
According to the protest leaders, police officers have allegedly been conducting night-time arrests, breaking into homes and extorting residents. The protesters further alleged that millions of naira had been collected from youths under the guise of arrests and investigations.
Some protesters also raised allegations of youths being taken away during police operations, describing the situation as a growing source of fear within the community.
These allegations remain claims by the protesters and have not been independently established.
Police Yet to Publicly Address Allegations
As of 8 August 2026, the Cross River State Police Command had reportedly been informed of the situation through the office of the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO).
However, as of 9:57a.m. on August 8, the Command had not issued a public statement addressing the specific allegations contained in the trending videos and the concerns raised by Okuku youths.
The absence of an official response has continued to fuel discussions among residents and social media users, with calls for transparency and clarification from the police authorities.
Residents are awaiting the Police Command’s position on the allegations, including the circumstances surrounding the reported arrest and assault, the alleged bail demand, and other claims raised by the protesting youths.
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