An operative of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) last Friday opened fire on a doctor attached to the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, on the suspicion of hitting a dog. The Bayelsa Command of NSCDC on Tuesday said that it would not shield the operative.

It was gathered that the NSCDC personnel opened fire on a resident doctor who was driving to work with his wife and two children in the vehicle when he suddenly ran into a straying dog.

The dog escaped unhurt but the resident doctor was accosted by an NSCDC officer who dragged him into their office in the neigbbourhood and allegedly assaulted the doctor, who was later taken to hospital for medical assessment and treatment.

Bayelsa Commandant of NSCDC Mr Desmond Agu, said in Yenagoa that the Commandant General of NSCDC has ordered an investigation into the incident.

He said that the NSCDC does not condone indiscipline amongst its rank and file and will spare no effort in ensuring that its officers operate within its operational guidelines and rules of engagement.

His words: “As we speak, the young man who allegedly perpetrated the act has been detained while investigation is underway and if the officer is found guilty, he will be dealt with according to the provisions of the NSCDC guidelines.

“The incident is unfortunate and I have personally met with the victim, President of the Association of Resident Doctors, as well as the management of the Federal Medical Centre where the doctor works.

“I have assured them that the matter will be dealt with and they attested to the cordial working relationship we have enjoyed over the years.”

Agu assured residents in the state that the NSCDC values the cordial relationship with members of the public and would seek to deepen the friendship and partnership with the people in its efforts to protect critical national assets located in Bayelsa.

The victim, who does not want his identity disclosed for reasons of his personal safety, however, said that he was not hit by the bullets, adding that he was recovering from the injuries he sustained during the physical assault.

“My car was riddled with bullets but none of the occupants was hit by the bullets. I am getting better by the grace God,” the doctor said from his hospital bed.

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