The Nigeria Police Force in Anambra State has reacted to a viral video showing officers allegedly harassing a resident in Onitsha, assuring the public that those involved will face investigation and possible disciplinary action.
According to the victim’s wife, the officers accosted her husband and demanded to see his documents. She said that despite presenting the required papers, the officers handcuffed him, accused him of being a thief, and took him away while threatening him.
She further alleged that the officers demanded N500,000 from her husband. Out of fear for his safety, and unsure whether the men were genuine police officers or kidnappers, he reportedly agreed to pay N200,000. The officers then took him to a POS operator where the money was withdrawn.
Reacting in a statement released on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command had begun steps to identify the officers involved.
He disclosed that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Okpoko had already intercepted the complaint and initiated an internal process to track down the personnel allegedly responsible.
Ikenga added that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ikioye Orutugu, had directed the DPO to produce the officers concerned for investigation and possible disciplinary action in line with the rules of the Nigeria Police Force.
Preliminary findings from the investigation revealed that the money allegedly collected from the victim had been returned, which the police said pointed to “serious indictment and unprofessional conduct” by the officers involved.
The statement also noted that the involvement of the POS operator in the incident suggests a possible conspiracy.
The command reiterated that it would not shield any officer found culpable, assuring that appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken in line with established procedures.
Police authorities further reaffirmed their commitment to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights, adding that further updates would be communicated to the public as the investigation progresses.