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The Anambra State Police Command has reacted to a viral video showing some of its officers allegedly harassing a citizen in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The victim’s wife narrated how police officers accosted her husband and demanded to see his documents. According to her, despite providing all the necessary papers, the officers handcuffed him and took him away while threatening him and calling him a thief.
She alleged that the officers demanded N500,000 from him. Fearing for his life and unsure whether they were genuine police officers or kidnappers, he reportedly agreed to give them N200,000. She added that the officers then took him to a POS operator to withdraw the money.
Reacting in a statement released on Monday, March 16, the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said no officer implicated in the incident would be shielded by the command.
“The Command wishes to inform the public that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Okpoko had already intercepted the complaint and immediately initiated steps to identify the officers involved in the alleged act,” the statement read.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, has directed the DPO to produce the officers concerned for necessary investigation and possible disciplinary action in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Police Force.
“Preliminary findings to aid the ongoing investigation reveal the following:
“The DPO had earlier detailed officers to identify the personnel allegedly involved in the act.
“The money allegedly collected from the victim has been returned, which shows serious indictment and unprofessional conduct by the officers.
“The involvement of the POS operator suggests possible conspiracy in the incident.
“The Command reiterates that it will not shield any officer found culpable. Appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken in accordance with established procedures.
“The Anambra State Police Command remains committed to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of the rights of all citizens.
“Further developments will be communicated to the public.”
