Police brutality has become a crucial topic over the past months across the globe. Many have rioted and demanded justice for their loved ones who have died amid police violence. They have demanded government institutions to disband and execute officers who have violated human rights. Countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and South Africa have marched in solidarity with protestors across the globe. Tensions have been escalating amid the corona pandemic as police continue to misuse their power. However, since times are changing, many people are joining in the strikes and voicing out their opinions.
Incidences Of Police Brutality
On Monday, 26th October 2020, police shot and killed a 27-year-old black man in the streets of Philadelphia. The officers fired at the man after he resisted dropping the knife he was carrying. Walter Wallace suffered several gunshot wounds as he advanced towards the police officers who ordered him to surrender. One of the police officers put him in the police vehicle and rushed him to the hospital. Upon his arrival, the doctors pronounced him dead.
This is not the first incident of police killing a black man. There are many incidences other than shooting. For instance, George Floyd is among the victims who succumbed after a police officer rendered him breathless after choking him with his knee. The incident sparked demonstrations as many condemned the officer for being so atrocious.
Another scenario was when police in the United States shot Jacob Blake, a black American. Reports say that the officer had shot the 29-year-old five times on his back. Blake suffered the gunshots after the police thought he was trespassing and wanted to attack them. Since they thought he had a weapon, they fired at him. However, Blake did not die, though he is paralyzed with little hope of recovery.
Also, for the past weeks, Nigerians have been protesting against police brutality in Lagos. They have conducted campaigns endorsing the government to end the Special Antirobery Unit. The tensions have triggered surging unrest among the people in the country. Despite the government of Nigeria banning SARS, the people continued with their strikes.
The recent peaceful demonstrations in Lagos ended in chaos after police clashed with the demonstrators. Witnesses testified that police were shooting at the innocent demonstrators, causing many to run for their lives while others wail for help. Nigerians have alleged that police in the country have been extorting, torturing, and exploiting citizens. Young men have endured abuses from SARS and other officers.
Reactions
Concerning the shooting in Philadelphia, the police inspector Chief Inspector Frank Vanore confirmed that the police received a call of an armed man screaming. Then two officers were on duty fired seven times, which is 14 gunshots. However, they did not know exactly how many times Wallace was struck.
The incident aggravated many Philadelphians who took to the streets to demand justice. Reports say that officers arrested a dozen protestors and 30 police officers sustained injuries.
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