Children’s Day celebration: 3 bouncers arrested over pepper spray incident

The Edo State Police Command has arrested three bouncers and a pepper spray vendor in connection with the incident that led to the collapse of several students during the Children’s Day celebration at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City. The command also confirmed the arrest of a police officer accused of unlawfully discharging tear gas at Ogida on May 25, resulting in the death of one person. Several students reportedly collapsed on May 27 after pepper spray was discharged by bouncers attempting to control a crowd during the Children’s Day event. In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, said the arrests followed investigations into the incident. The suspects were identified as Ifeanyi John Paul, 36; Ola Ibikunle, 46; Onoha Chukwuoji, 33; and Rebecca Hassan, alleged supplier of the pepper spray used at the event. Police said the unlawful use of the spray caused panic and affected several children and other participants. Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, warned against the misuse of such devices, stressing that they can cause serious injuries and, in some cases, death. He directed individuals and groups in possession of unauthorised security equipment to surrender them immediately or face arrest and prosecution.