Police arrest officers over viral misconduct video in Abia

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The Abia State Police Command on Sunday said it had arrested officers involved in a viral social media video showing alleged police misconduct in Uturu, Abia State.

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In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, the command said an investigation was immediately launched following the incident.

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“The complainant was contacted, and the officers involved were identified, traced, and promptly arrested,” the statement said.

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It added that the Commissioner of Police had directed that the officers be investigated by the State Criminal Investigation Department for appropriate administrative action.

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The command assured the public that updates would be provided on the outcome of the investigation.

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The commissioner also reiterated the command’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and civility in dealing with members of the public while carrying out lawful duties.

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He warned that “impunity and all forms of misconduct will not be tolerated,” in line with the mandate of the Inspector-General of Police to ensure a police force that is friendly and compliant with human rights standards.

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In the viral video obtained in Umuahia, a police officer at a checkpoint was seen questioning a commuter over why he had three mobile phones.

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The commuter, who was recording the encounter, asked the officer why he was not wearing a name tag, saying he could not identify him. Another officer objected to being filmed, while the first officer responded in pidgin, “Make you record am. I no dey fear.”

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When the commuter threatened to call the Inspector-General of Police, the officer replied, “Oya, call am,” before a struggle reportedly ensued.

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