Ugo Nosiri, Owerri
The Acting Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has issued a resounding call to all medical practitioners in the country to provide prompt and compassionate treatment to all victims of gunshots and accidents, irrespective of the presence or absence of a police report.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi stated this while speaking to newsmen at the Police headquarters in Owerri.
ACP Adejobi said the warning was in response to the ongoing concerns over the tragic loss of lives due to the neglect of gunshot and accident victims and the relentless outcry from concerned citizens, highlighting the tragic consequences of delays in treating these victims.
He said the IGP’s directive aligns with the full enforcement of the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act of 2017, which mandates that all healthcare providers prioritise the immediate care and stabilisation of such patients, recognising the critical importance of timely medical attention in saving lives.
“The IGP underscores the moral duty and responsibility of medical practitioners to uphold the sanctity of life and provide life-saving care to those in need aiming to bridge the gap between law enforcement agencies and healthcare providers, facilitating a more efficient and compassionate response to emergency situations, and curbing crimes by fulfilling their obligation to invite the Police for assessment while treatment is ongoing,” he maintained.
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The Inspector-General therefore calls on all medical institutions and professionals to adhere to these directives and fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies when necessary.
He maintained that the Nigeria Police will collaborate with all relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, particularly the Federal Ministry of Health, for the full enforcement of the provisions of the Act.
