The Nigerian Police Force has contradicted claims by Amnesty International on the number of casualties during the nationwide protests that erupted on August 1, 2024. In a press release issued on Friday, the police said the human rights group’s figure of 13 deaths was inaccurate.

According to the police, only seven people have lost their lives since the protests began. Four of these deaths occurred in Borno State after a suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP attack on protesters. Two others died in a road accident involving a fleeing driver, while the seventh fatality was recorded in Kebbi State during a looting incident.

The police further disclosed that while there were no recorded fatalities beyond these seven cases, there were incidents of violence, arson, and looting across the country. Over 680 suspects have been arrested in connection with these crimes, with recovered items including firearms, stolen goods, and vandalized property.

The police maintained that its officers acted with restraint during the protests, using tear gas to disperse unruly crowds. They also condemned attacks on police personnel, with nine officers sustaining injuries.

However, the force advised protesters to withdraw from the demonstrations, which it described as having turned violent. It urged Nigerians to disregard false information circulating about the protests.

The police statement comes amid growing concerns over the management of the protests and the level of violence witnessed in some parts of the country.