The Imo State Commissioner of Police (CP), Aboki Danjuma, has warned all police officers in the State to desist from carrying out unlawful searching of phones, extortion, harassment, and violation of the rights of the people.
Also, Danjuma ordered tactical team officers on patrols not to drive in unmarked vehicles, warning that any violation linked to the above would be thoroughly investigated and erring officers dealt with accordingly.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesperson of the command, Henry Okoye, Danjuma directed the officers to henceforth comply with the directive, especially as it concerns the youths.
It read: “The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, has issued a firm directive warning officers and men of the Command against unlawful phone searches, extortion, harassment, and other forms of rights violations, particularly against youths.”
On the ban on the use of unmarked vehicles for patrols, Okoye, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said: “In the same vein, the CP reiterated the ban on the use of unmarked vehicles by tactical teams. He emphasised that shuttle buses must not be used for patrols anywhere in the State. Complaints of harassment, intimidation, and extortion linked to such practices will be thoroughly investigated, and erring officers sanctioned.”
On the over-detention of suspects, the statement stressed: “CP Danjuma further warned against the over-detention of suspects, stressing that the rights of suspects are sacrosanct and must be respected at all times. He noted that any breach of constitutional provisions and global best practices will not be tolerated.”
He directed all the Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Unit Commanders to warn and supervise the officers under them.
“Consequently, the CP directed all Area Commanders, DPOs, and Tactical Unit Commanders to warn and supervise their personnel. Any personnel found engaging in misconduct will face severe disciplinary action, while their commanders will be held vicariously liable. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to professionalism and accountability in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police.”
He further urged residents to report any erring officers by dialing either the command’s X-Squad Unit or the Complaints Response Unit’s (CRU) phone lines.
“The Imo State Police Command assures members of the public of its determination to safeguard their rights while maintaining law and order. Cases of extortion or any misconduct can be reported directly to the Command’s X-Squad Unit or the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) via 08148024755 or 08134783532. Citizens are encouraged to make prompt reports for immediate action,” the statement added.
